Household Accident
Woman killed after malfunctioning ottoman bed falls on her neck
In a tragic accident that has raised significant safety concerns, Helen Davey, a 39-year-old mother of two from Seaham, County Durham, England, was killed when a malfunctioning ottoman bed collapsed on her neck. The incident, which occurred on June 7, 2024, has prompted warnings from coroners and calls for increased safety measures regarding the use of gas-lift mechanisms in furniture.
Ottoman beds are popular for their dual functionality, offering both sleeping space and storage. These beds typically feature a liftable base supported by gas-lift hydraulics, allowing users to access storage compartments beneath the mattress. However, the same mechanism that provides convenience can pose serious risks if not properly maintained or if it malfunctions.
Helen Davey was at home when the accident occurred. According to reports from the inquest, she was leaning over the storage compartment of her ottoman bed when the mattress platform suddenly descended. The collapse pinned her neck against the upper edge of the bed's side panel, leading to asphyxiation. Her daughter, Elizabeth, found her mother unresponsive and attempted to lift the heavy bed off her. Despite her efforts and performing CPR until paramedics arrived, Helen Davey could not be revived and was pronounced dead at the scene.
The investigation revealed that one of the two gas-lift pistons on the bed was defective. This defect caused the bed to lose its soft-close feature, making it fall heavily and unexpectedly. The senior coroner for Durham and Darlington, Jeremy Chipperfield, classified the death as accidental but emphasized that such incidents could recur if preventive actions are not taken.
The tragic death of Helen Davey has sparked discussions about the safety of ottoman beds and similar furniture using gas-lift mechanisms. Coroner Jeremy Chipperfield issued a report highlighting the potential dangers these mechanisms pose if they fail. He stressed that without proactive measures to address these risks, similar fatalities could occur in the future.
In his communication with government officials, including the Secretary of State for Trade and Business and the Office for Product Safety and Standards, Chipperfield called for increased scrutiny and regulation of these products. He recommended that manufacturers ensure robust quality control processes are in place to prevent such defects. Additionally, he suggested that consumers be better informed about maintaining these mechanisms and recognizing signs of wear or failure.
Helen Davey's death has left a profound impact on her family and community. Her daughter Elizabeth publicly expressed her grief in a heartfelt message on social media, describing her mother as her best friend and lamenting the loss deeply felt by both herself and her younger brother George.
The incident has also prompted local communities to reassess their own furniture safety practices. Many have begun checking their own ottoman beds and similar furniture for potential defects or malfunctions.
The unfortunate death of Helen Davey serves as a stark reminder of the potential hazards associated with everyday household items like ottoman beds. It underscores the importance of regular maintenance and awareness of product safety standards. As investigations continue and recommendations are made to prevent future tragedies, this incident highlights a critical need for both manufacturers and consumers to prioritize safety in household furnishings.