Updated 1/1/2023
Petzl 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, therefore, ask users to do a manual inspection and a function test of your product to detect any possible slippage. In case your product slips, we are providing details on the Australian after-sales returns service.
ZIGZAG (D022AA00), ZIGZAG PLUS (D022BA00), ZILLON (L22A 025, L22A 040, L22A 055) with serial numbers between 18L 0000000 000 and 21G 0000000 000.
Customer returns alerted us to slippage with new or slightly used ZIGZAG / ZIGZAG PLUS / ZILLON products. Following our technical investigations, we were able to identify the causes of the slippage. They related to a variance in our production process, resulting in two types of defects in the release levers on ZIGZAG, ZIGZAG PLUS and ZILLON:
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 three actions:
Note: devices must fail the following inspection and test, and will not be replaced if slipping occurs due to excessive wear and tear from use.
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 productby contacting using the relevant method above.
If you have any doubt about the results of these tests, contact us by lodging a Support Request. 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.
As mentioned this Inspection Request is for the below products with serial numbers in the range 18L 0000000 000 and 21G 0000000 000.
NOTE: In order to return the device it must fail the (1) inspection and (2) function test detailed in this notice. Devices will not be replaced if slipping occurs due to excessive wear and tear from use.
It has come to our attention that some units returned are slipping not due to the faulty manufacturing in the top two levers. We have found heavy usage where high rates of use on contaminated, unclean, ropes will wear out the friction areas and creates slippage. This is particularly the case when using the thinner Ø ropes like 11.5 and 11.7mm due to the smaller friction area.
If your device looks similar to the images below highlighting the wear, then your device is not faulty and is worn out and needs to be replaced.
For FAQ's visit petzl.com.au - this offer expired 31/12/2022. Original post from petzl.com