Black Diamond Recalls Climbing Ascenders Due to Fall Hazard

Black Diamond Index Ascenders (left and right)

Black Diamond Index Ascenders for climbing

Recall Date: May 19th, 2016
Type: Mountain Climbing
Units: About 2,800 (in addition, 300 were sold in Canada)
Hazards: The Index Ascenders' rivet holding the toothed cam can release, allowing the Ascender to slide on the rope or become detached from the rope, posing a risk of injury or death to climbers from a fall.
Remedies: Replace
Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled ascenders and contact Black Diamond for instructions on inspecting and returning the product for a free replacement. Instructions for inspection are also available at https://warranty.bdel.com/IndexRecall/Landing. Only those ascenders having an unformed rivet need to be returned for replacement.

Description

This recall involves Black Diamond brand Index Ascenders (left and right versions) used as rope clamps for rock climbing and mountaineering. The metal ascenders are orange, with a black and gray grip or silver with a black and gray grip. Index Ascenders with a manufacturing code from 4356 to 6015 are included in the recall. The manufacturing code is located on the frame of the ascenders. "Black Diamond" is imprinted on both sides of the handle.

Images:

Black Diamond Index Ascenders (left and right)

Location of manufacturing code on Index Ascenders

Index Ascender with correct rivet (left) and unformed rivet (right)

Consumer Contact:

Black Diamond at 800-775-5552 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. MT Monday through Friday, email at [email protected] or online a http://blackdiamondequipment.com and click on “SAFETY NOTICES: Recall for Inspection” for more information.

Injuries:

None reported

Retailers:

Eastern Mountain Sports, Moosejaw Mountaineering, Outdoors Inc., REI, Sport Chalet, and other specialty outdoor stores nationwide and online at Backcountry.com and BlackDiamond.com and for about $80.