Frequently Asked Questions
General Information
Why is Black Diamond doing this recall?
Black Diamond's internal quality control system discovered three Via Ferrata lanyards that were incorrectly manufactured but had not left the factory, and we are concerned that more may exist and may have been sold to consumers. We are undertaking this recall to make climbers aware of this risk and to ensure that any improperly manufactured Via Ferrata sets are removed from use.
What is the technical reason for this recall?
In a very small number of Via Ferrata lanyards, the security stitching (the three orange bar tacks that attach the carabiners to the lanyards) may not be present, which would result in immediate failure of the lanyard under body weight.
How many Via Ferrata lanyards with defects have you found?
As of April 12, 2016, we have only found three units that were incorrectly sewn. They were found in our factory before they were shipped. No injuries have been reported.
What are you doing to fix this problem so it won’t occur again?
What does the orange security stitching do?
The security stitching attaches the carabiner to the lanyard and makes it load-bearing.
What does the term “Subject to Inspection“ mean?
We are initiating a formal recall, but, in this case, we need consumers and retail shops to visually inspect their Via Ferrata Lanyards and send back those that do not pass inspection.
Has anyone been hurt because of this issue?
No injuries have been reported.
How is Black Diamond going to fix the problem?
If you find that your lanyard fails inspection, we will replace it.
Does this recall affect any other sewn piece of equipment?
No, but there is a separate recall notice for Nylon Runners.
Click here for more information.
I bought an Iron Cruiser or Easy Rider Via Ferrata package. Are those lanyards affected by the recall?
I was thinking about buying a lanyard. How will I be sure the product I purchase is not part of the recall?
Black Diamond is taking every step to ensure lanyards available on the market are properly manufactured. If you have a doubt, follow the inspection procedures. Please refer to the
letter to users more information.
Inspection Procedure Questions
How do I know if my lanyards are affected by the recall?
You should check the manufacturing code printed on the small tag on inside the zippered energy absorber pouch. If the manufacturing code is between 5293 and 5350, then your lanyard is affected by this recall and needs to be inspected. If you can not read the manufacturing code or are unsure whether or not your lanyard is covered by the recall, please follow the inspection procedures outlined on the
recall page.
What manufacturing codes are included in this recall?
Manufacturing codes between 5293 to 5350 are included in the recall and must be inspected.
I don’t remember when I bought my lanyard. What should I do?
Follow the
inspection procedures to determine if your lanyard has a manufacturing code that falls within the scope of this recall.
I just bought a lanyard, and the manufacturing code is within the range of the recall. Is it OK to use?
Follow the inspection procedures outlined on the
recall page.
Where do I find the manufacturing code on my lanyards?
The manufacturing code is found on the small tag on inside the zippered energy absorber pouch. Refer to the photographs on the
recall page.
I can’t find the manufacturing code. What should I do?
Follow the inspection procedures outlined on the
recall page.
I can’t read the manufacturing code. What should I do?
Follow the inspection procedures outlined on the
recall page.
My lanyard is working just fine. Do I still need to inspect it?
Yes, if your lanyard falls within the scope of this recall. Even if your lanyard seems to be fine, you should follow the inspection procedures outlined on the
recall page.
I don’t feel comfortable inspecting my lanyard. What can I do?
I don’t know what kind of lanyard I have. How can I tell?
You can visit the Via Ferrata section of our website for further information to help identify your lanyard device. If you are still unsure, inspect your lanyard device following the inspection procedures outlined on the
recall page.
How to I tell if my lanyard has been correctly assembled?
Follow the inspection procedures outlined on the
recall page. Look for the orange security stitching that attaches the carabiner to the lanyard arms. Be sure to look at both arms. There should be three bar tacks. If orange stitching is present on both arms, then your lanyard is ok to use.
There is no orange stitching on one or both of the arms of the lanyard. What should I do?
Your lanyard is incorrectly assembled. Immediately stop use and submit a recall claim using the
recall submission form.
I found a lanyard covered by the recall. What should I do?
I followed the inspection procedures, but I’m still not sure if my lanyard is safe to use. What should I do?
Shipping And Returns
I bought my lanyard from a retail store (or online retailer), and it did not pass the inspection process. Do I need to return it to them, or do I send it directly back to Black Diamond?
Regardless of where you bought your lanyard, you should still return it to Black Diamond using the online
recall submission form.
Can I fix the lanyard myself?
No. Send it back for a replacement.
How long will it take to get my replacement lanyard(s)?
Once we receive your lanyard, we will ship out a replacement within approximately three business days. Actual shipping times will depend on your location.
I’m going on a trip, and I need my lanyard back faster. What can I do?
Will I get the same model of lanyard when my product is returned?
Yes.
Can I replace my lanyard with a different model?
No.
Do I have to pay for shipping?
No. We will cover all shipping costs.
Are there special precautions to take when shipping my lanyard in for replacement?
Place it in a padded shipping envelope or in a box, and mail it using the prepaid mailer sent to you.
What is the warranty policy for Black Diamond equipment?
For one year following purchase unless otherwise indicated by law, we will warrant to the original retail buyer only that our products are free from defects in material and workmanship as originally sold. If you receive a defective product, return it to us and we will replace it subject to the following conditions: We do not warrant products which show normal wear and tear or that have been used or maintained improperly, modified or altered, or damaged in any manner.
Click here for more information about our warranty policy.