Gear Recall Alert: Updates for Safety Professionals

Staying informed about equipment recalls is vital for anyone in the rope access, rigging, and work-at-height industries. Recent recalls from trusted brands like Petzl and Rock Exotica highlight the importance of regularly inspecting gear and staying updated. Below, we’ve summarized key recalls and the actions you should take to ensure safety.

Recent Gear Recalls

1. Petzl GYM, PANDION, and PANJI Climbing Harnesses (2024)

• Issue: Harnesses can be worn backward, allowing ropes or carabiners to connect to non-load-bearing leg loops, creating a fall hazard.
• Affected Products: Serial numbers:
  • GYM: 18C0000000 - 23C9999999
  • PANDION: 18I0000000 - 23I9999999
  • PANJI: 21J0000000 - 23J9999999
• Solution: Stop use immediately and contact Petzl for a free repair.
• More Info: CPSC Recall Notice.

2. Petzl ASTRO BOD FAST, ASTRO SIT FAST, and CANYON GUIDE Harnesses (2023)

• Issue: A defect in the metal D gated ventral attachment point.
• Solution: Quarantine and inspect affected harnesses.
• More Info: Gravitec Recall Notice.

3. Petzl Professional Safety Ropes (2023)

• Issue: Risk of rope failure leading to potential injury.
• Solution: Inspect ropes for defects and contact Petzl for replacement if necessary.
• More Info: GearJunkie Article.

4. Rock Exotica Omni Block 1.1” Pulley (2023)

• Issue: The button assembly on certain pulleys may fail, potentially causing the rope to fall out.
• Affected Products: Serial numbers 20050XXX to 22304XXX (manufactured from February 2020 through October 2022).
• Solution: Return affected pulleys for inspection and repair.
• More Info: Rock Exotica Recall Notice

5. Black Diamond Equipment Neve Strap Crampons Recall (2024)

• Issue: Potential malfunction of the crampons, leading to a fall hazard.
• Affected Products: Neve Strap Crampons and Accessory Kits, Style No. 400073, with date codes 01-2021, 05-2022, 07-2023, 01-2024, and SS1271.
• Action: Stop using the recalled crampons and contact Black Diamond for a replacement or refund.
• More Information: CPSC Recall Notice

6. 3M™ DBI-SALA® Self-Rescue Descent Systems Recall (2020)

• Issue: Potential malfunction during descent, posing a serious injury or death risk.
• Affected Products: 3M™ DBI-SALA® Self-Rescue Descent Systems (part numbers 3320030, etc.).
• Action: Immediately stop using the affected systems and contact 3M for a recall process.
• More Information: 3M Fall Protection Notices

7. DMM Compact Swivel Units Recall (2022)

• Issue: Identified safety concerns requiring product recall.
• Affected Products: DMM Compact Swivel Units.
• Action: Cease use immediately and follow DMM's recall instructions.
• More Information: DMM Recall Information

8. Blue Ice AERO Ice Screws Recall (2025)

• Issue: Potential safety issues leading to a recall.
• Affected Products: Blue Ice AERO Ice Screws.
• Action: Stop using the affected ice screws and contact Blue Ice for further instructions.
• More Information: UIAA Safety Recalls

9. Black Diamond PIEPS Pro IPS Avalanche Transceiver Recall (2024)

• Issue: Potential malfunction posing safety risks.
• Affected Products: Black Diamond PIEPS Pro IPS Avalanche Transceivers.
• Action: Cease use immediately and contact Black Diamond for a replacement or update.
• More Information: UIAA Safety Recalls

10. Mammut Barryvox 2 and Barryvox S2 Recall (2024)

• Issue: Identified defects leading to a voluntary recall.
• Affected Products: Mammut Barryvox 2 and Barryvox S2 avalanche transceivers.
• Action: Stop using the devices and follow Mammut's recall procedures.
• More Information: UIAA Safety Recalls

11. 3M™ Protecta® Rebel Self-Retracting Lifeline Inspection Notice (2020)

• Issue: Potential manufacturing issue affecting performance.
• Affected Products: 3M™ Protecta® Rebel Self-Retracting Lifelines produced between October 14, 2019, and February 25, 2020.
• Action: Inspect the lifelines as per 3M's guidelines and discontinue use if defects are found.
• More Information: 3M Fall Protection Notices

12. 3M™ DBI-SALA® 16 Foot Talon™ Self-Retracting Lifeline Recall (2018)

• Issue: Assembly error potentially preventing fall arrest, posing serious injury or death risk.
• Affected Products: 3M™ DBI-SALA® 16 Foot Talon™ Self-Retracting Lifelines.
• Action: Stop use immediately and contact 3M for recall instructions.
• More Information: 3M Fall Protection Notices

13. DMM Nexus Recall for Inspection (2019)

• Issue: Safety concerns necessitating product inspection.
• Affected Products: DMM Nexus products.
• Action: Conduct inspections as per DMM's guidelines and cease use if issues are

Why Recalls Matter

These recalls serve as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and inspecting your equipment regularly. Small defects can lead to serious accidents if left unaddressed.

What You Should Do

1. Check Your Gear: Regularly inspect for wear, damage, or defects, even if your gear isn't part of a recall.
2. Follow Manufacturer Guidelines: Always adhere to proper usage and maintenance instructions.
3. Stay Informed: Sign up for updates from manufacturers and industry news sources.

For additional details on these recalls, visit:

• Petzl Recall Information
• Rock Exotica Recall Notices

Your safety is our priority. Stay vigilant, stay informed, and keep rigging responsibly!