The exercise bike company Peloton fought back on Saturday after a federal agency warned that those with children at home should stop using the company’s Tread+ treadmills.
The agency, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, issued an “urgent warning” after reports of 38 injuries and one death linked to the machine, which was previously known as the Tread.
The agency said those with small children at home should stop using the machine, warning that the Tread+ posed risks to children, including abrasions, fractures and even death.
The commission said that at least one accident was believed to have happened while a parent was using the treadmill. Those who continue to use it should do so in a locked room inaccessible to children and pets, the agency said.
saying that the commission’s warning was “inaccurate and misleading.” The company said in the statement that there was no reason for consumers to refrain from using the machine, adding that safety instructions should always be followed.
according to the company’s website.
Senator Richard Blumenthal, a Democrat of Connecticut, called on Peloton to cooperate with the agency.
“It’s clear that the Peloton Tread+ must be recalled,” Mr. Blumenthal said. “The company’s attempts to dismiss reports of injury as consumer misuse are irresponsible and inexcusable, as multiple incidents happened with adults using the treadmill according to company instructions. ”
Peloton said it had invited the commission to make a joint announcement about the risks of not following safety instructions and that John Foley, the company’s chief executive, asked to meet with the agency.
“Peloton is disappointed that, despite its offers of collaboration, and despite the fact that the Tread+ complies with all applicable safety standards, CPSC was unwilling to engage in any meaningful discussions with Peloton before issuing its inaccurate and misleading press release,” the company said.