Recall of PIRANA descenders (D005AA00 and D005AA01) due to a drowning risk if the rope accidentally gets blocked in the blocking slot. Immediately stop using the descenders affected by this recall.

Affected products:

• PIRANA descenders D005AA00 and D005AA01 (see models in photo above).
• Serial numbers: from 19 F 0000000 000 to 22 A 9999999 999.
• Sold from July 2019 up to January 2022
  

Unaffected PIRANA descenders:

• Previous generation PIRANA (see models in the photo below - Old generation PIRANA (references D05 and D05 NOI)  - Not affected)
  

Identified risk

In certain situations, where the user lets the rope slide freely through the PIRANA to intentionally drop into the water, the rope runs quickly through the descender and can accidentally get blocked in the PIRANA’s blocking slot. The user is then stuck, and may not be able to remove the rope from this position. This situation can be dangerous, with a drowning risk, especially if the user is stuck under a waterfall or in a pool of water.

Decision to recall

New feedback from the field since our July 2021 safety alert (modification to the Instructions for Use) led to our decision to recall the affected PIRANA.

If you have a PIRANA that is affected by this recall, stop using it immediately and return it to our local after-sales service via the contact form listed at the bottom of this notice. You will be offered a refund. Petzl will pay for the return shipping costs.

Download PDF Press Release

Download the PDF Press Release for this Pirana Recall

Download a PDF Trading Standards NZ Product Safety Recall Notice

FAQ

What should I do if my PIRANA descender is affected by this recall?
Immediately stop using your product and contact your local after-sales service for a refund via the contact form at the bottom of this notice.

I am a user, what amount will I be refunded for my PIRANA?
Your local Petzl after-sales service will refund you the suggested retail price in your country.

Has this risk caused any personal injury?
To date, we are not aware of any personal injury related to the identified risk.

When will the PIRANA be available again?
We are working on a replacement product right now. We are currently unable to give an availability date for the new product.

Where is my PIRANA’s serial number?
Your PIRANA’s serial number is located on the frame of the product.

Return/Replacement Process in New Zealand

End Users: please complete a Support Request and the New Zealand Distributor will be in touch to arrange the return and subsequent replacement.

Retail Stores: please visit the Spelean NZ site and lodge a Support Request HERE.