Petzl have advised that they have received reports from users experiencing rope slippage while using the ZIGZAG®, ZIGZAG® PLUS and ZILLON. Following these reports, they have identified two defects causing the slippage.
Petzl have requested users to do a manual inspection and a function test of your product to detect any possible slippage. In case your product slips, you can return it THS for replacement* or refund, or alternatively, you can lodge a product exchange request direct with Petzl at petzl.com.au.
Products in this Alert:
ZIGZAG (D022AA00), ZIGZAG PLUS (D022BA00), ZILLON (L22A 025, L22A 040, L22A 055) with serial numbers between 18L 0000000 000 and 21G 0000000 000.
Petzl advises that customer returns alerted them to slippage with new or slightly used ZIGZAG / ZIGZAG PLUS / ZILLON products. Following their technical investigations, they were able to identify the causes of the slippage. They related to a variance in the production process, resulting in two types of defects in the release levers on ZIGZAG, ZIGZAG PLUS and ZILLON:
- random malfunction of the spring effect of the upper release lever,
- variance in the surface treatment resulting in a modification of the geometry of the release lever.
This production variance causes premature wear on the release levers, resulting in slippage that can be observed after a few months of use, or even on new products.
Petzl has advised all stores to:
- Stop sales of current products. Petzl are working to solve the problem with the goal of being able to deliver new products (Ex France)* after November 1st, 2021
- Request for inspection by users of their product by following the two specific points of the PPE inspection procedure.
- An Exchange offer to redress the inconvenience caused by the slippage of your product. Either exchange via petzl.com.au or refund from THS, please call us to discuss the facilitation of the return during COVID lockdowns.
PPE Inspection points to carry out on your ZIGZAG / ZIGZAG PLUS / ZILLON product:
1. Inspecting the release levers
Check the effectiveness of the upper release lever return spring (1) and the mobility of the lower release lever (2) for ZIGZAG, ZIGZAG PLUS. Repeat the test at least ten times. The levers should move freely without friction.
If the results of these tests are not satisfactory, immediately stop using your product and return your product via the methods described above. If the levers work, proceed to the next inspection point.
2. Function Test
ZILLON: Hang on to the lanyard in single mode at a very low height: there should be no slippage. When used in double mode, verify that pressure on the release lever allows smooth and controlled sliding of the rope.
ZIGZAG / ZIGZAG PLUS: perform a function test with your rope (compatible ropes: 11.5 to 13mm ø).
Install the ZIGZAG in double mode. Suspend yourself at a very low height.
When hanging from the ZIGZAG in double mode, there should be no slippage. Verify that pressure on the release lever allows smooth and controlled sliding of the rope.
If the results of these test are not satisfactory, immediately stop using your product and return your product by the relevant method listed above.
If you have any doubt about the results of these tests, contact the Australian Distributor by lodging a Support Request or call our office. These inspection points are in no way a substitute for a complete PPE inspection of your product following the procedure available on www.petzl.com.
To find your serial numbers:
As mentioned this Inspection Request is only for the below products with serial numbers in the range 18L 0000000 000 and 21G 0000000 000.
