CPSC Recall in 2005: CPSC, MSA Announce Recall of Climbing Wall Descenders

Two types of descenders, which are used in recreational wall climbing, are included in this recall: Redpoint and Auto-Belay descenders. The descenders consist of a round metal housing into which a retractable red strap (Redpoint) or steel cable (Auto-Belay) is coiled. The front of each descender's round metal housing includes a red label (Redpoint) or green label (Auto-Belay) with the name of the product. A label on the back of the product's housing includes the descender's date of manufacture, last service date, and product number. Redpoint Descenders are identified with product numbers 10024873, 10027646 or 10027798. Auto-Belay Descenders are identified with the product number 10021806. Redpoint Descenders manufactured or serviced from August 27, 2004 through April 6, 2005 are included in the recall. Auto-Belay Descenders serviced from August 27, 2004 through April 6, 2005 are included in the recall.

This product, which assists wall climbers during descent, has a faulty bearing that can cause the brakes to fail. When this occurs, wall climbers risk rapid descent with no braking capability.

Repair

MSA has received three reports of Redpoint Descenders' brakes failing. One fall resulted in a cracked vertebra. Other injuries include bruised ribs and a sprained ankle.

MSA worldwide from August 27, 2004, through April 6, 2005 for about $2,000.