Safety Bulletin - May 9, 2008: KONG CARABINER model: 0426

This is an oval carabiner. The packaging is a plastic bag attached to card on which the details of the manufacturer are printed.  Country of origin is Italy.  The product poses a risk of injuries because it does not withstand the static strength test which could lead to falls. The test was carried out on the major axis, and it was noted that the connectors break when the following forces are applied: force of the major axis with the gate open: 6.1 KN (required level: 7 KN); force of the major axis with the gate closed: 18.6 KN (required level: 22 KN).  Withdrawal from the market ordered by the authorities.  The full text of the notice is available at: http://ec.europa.eu:80/consumers/dyna/rapex/create_rapex.cfm?rx_id=182

The ACC's Safety Committee has received information about the recent failure of one Black Diamond Quick Draw 235 avalanche probe. A loop of wire inside the tubing rusted through causing the probe to come apart as it was being assembled for use. The retail outlet where the equipment was purchased, as well as the manufacturer, have both been notified and have responded. It appears that moisture inside the tubing as well as the materials used in the metal loop system could be the cause(s) of the problem. The manufacturer reports that only one probe of this type, made in winter 2002, has been returned and that they have no plans to issue a recall. Probes made since 2003 use different materials that should prevent the problem from developing. Users are advised to store the probe with the tip up to allow water to drain away. It is impossible to check the probe to make sure your probe isn't developing a similar problem; members are reminded that equipment generally doesn't last forever and that crucial pieces of safety gear should be replaced periodically. This picture will show what the problem looked like in the damaged probe.

Petzel America has issued a voluntary recall of Petzl M34 BL Am'D BALL-LOCK and M36 BL WILLIAM BALL-LOCK carabiners with the new metal locking sleeve due to the possibility that the sleeve can be unlocked without pressing the green button, so the locking system acts as a TWIST-LOCK, instead of a BALL-LOCK. Affected units were sold during March and July, 2006. No incidents or injuries have been reported. This information does not apply to the older nylon-sleeve locking system, but only to BALL-LOCK carabiners with the metal locking sleeve manufactured in March and July, 2006. This recall is in effect only in the USA - it does not affect BALL LOCK carabiners sold in other countries. For further information, visit Petzl's website.