CPSC recall 16-164, announced May 19, 2016, covers Black Diamond Index Ascenders for climbing (about 2,800 units). 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. The notice reports no incidents. Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled ascenders and contact Black Diamond for instructions on inspecting and returning the product for a free replacement. Recall contact: call 800-775-5552, go to blackdiamondequipment.com, or email recall@bdel.com.
Compare the model on your label, then check any serial numbers, date codes, and exclusions in the notice. A model match alone does not confirm that your unit is included.
The CPSC data does not provide a discrete model-number list for this record. Compare the product description and identification details on the official notice.
Which products are included?
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.
Confirm these details on the official CPSC noticeWhy it was recalled
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.
Incidents and injuries
None reported
Official remedy
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.
Product and sales details
- Recall number
- 16-164
- Units
- About 2,800 (in addition, 300 were sold in Canada)
- Manufactured in
- United States
- Sold at / sales period
- 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.
- Importer
- Black Diamond Equipment Ltd., of Salt Lake City, Utah
- Distributor
- Black Diamond Equipment Ltd., of Salt Lake City, Utah
Black Diamond Index Ascenders for climbing
CPSC product type: Mountain Climbing
Recall contact information
Black Diamond at 800-775-5552 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. MT Monday through Friday, email at recall@bdel.com or online a http://blackdiamondequipment.com and click on "SAFETY NOTICES: Recall for Inspection" for more information.
Verify phone numbers, hours, and websites on the current CPSC notice before contacting the firm.
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