Google Chelsea Office Briefly Closed for Bed-Bug Treatment

Google employees at the Chelsea campus were told to stay home on Sunday after a suspected bed-bug infestation was discovered in the building. Exterminators treated the area overnight and staff were allowed to return Monday morning.

The company asked employees to report any signs of bites or evidence of bed bugs and to contact professional exterminators if they accidentally brought bugs home. According to reporting that informed the story, a cluster of large stuffed animals in the office was cited as a possible source, though that detail was not independently confirmed.

Key details

• Incident: Suspected bed-bug infestation at Google’s Chelsea (New York) office.
• Action taken: Employees told to remain home while professional exterminators treated the building; staff returned Monday.
• Employee guidance: Report bites or sightings; seek professional treatment if bugs are brought home.
• Possible cause: Unconfirmed reports pointed to large stuffed animals in the office.

Bed bugs are a common urban pest that typically don’t transmit disease but can cause uncomfortable bites and significant disruption. Corporate campuses often close affected areas temporarily to allow thorough treatment and prevent spread.

For more details, see the original report: Engadget coverage.

Discussion: Have you ever encountered bed bugs at work or while traveling? How did your employer handle it?