
24/04/2013
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FAQ
Petzl ZIGZAG Recall
Why are you recalling the ZIGZAG?
On Friday, April 12, Petzl was informed of an accidental fall in Germany. According to the injured person’s account, the fall
was the result of the failure of the rope-end attachment hole of the ZIGZAG mechanical Prusik. Petzl’s investigation and
further testing has lead us to conclude that this failure was the result of a particular configuration of the cantilevered and
off-axis upper carabiner. Although it’s the responsibility of every user to ensure that connectors are correctly positioned,
Petzl believes that this incorrect positioning of the connector could inadvertently occur during normal use. Inadvertently
loading the system in this configuration could result in the failure of the ZIGZAG’s rope-end attachment hole, potentially
leading to serious injury or death. On April 23, 2014, we were informed of another identical failure without serious
consequences. As continued use of the ZIGZAG poses a risk of serious injury or death, Petzl has decided to recall all
ZIGZAGs from the field.
Is my ZIGZAG affected by this recall?
Yes. All ZIGZAGs are being recalled.
All units with a serial number 13108****** or below are affected by this recall.
Have there been other incidents involving the ZIGZAG?
To our knowledge, there have been no other incidents involving the ZIGZAG besides the two outlined above.
What is the medical situation of the injured person?
The injured person was hospitalized for two days and then released. He is at home and we wish him a rapid recovery.
What have been your actions regarding these problems?
- On April 15, 2013 we published a Safety Information to inform users of the accident in Germany and provide them with
recommendations of use.
- Four days later, on April 19, we informed users about the exact cause of the accident and as a measure of precaution,
we asked users to stop using their ZIGZAG. At the same time, we stopped production and sales of the device.
- On April 24, 2013, we published a recall notice affecting all ZIGZAGs.
At the same time our research and development department is working to develop a new version of ZIGZAG, which will
be available in January 2014.
How will you be compensating customers who have bought a ZIGZAG?
As part of this recall, Petzl is offering two choices:
- credit for other Petzl products (total value equal to the retail price of the ZIGZAG + 30%)
- a full refund of the purchase price (including taxes and shipping)
How do I get a refund?
The Petzl distributor in your country will refund you the purchase price of the ZIGZAG. A copy of the receipt is required for
a refund.