MSA very recently became aware of two incidents where climbers using Redpoint Descenders (Auto-Belay System) experienced rapid rates of descent resulting in injuries. Their preliminary investigations indicates an issue with the one-way bearings provided by their supplier, which may prevent the brakes from engaging during descent. Due to the nature of this condition, the users were not able to detect the problem before the rapid descent occurred.
This Stop-Use Notice applies to the following descender units: All Redpoint Descenders (part numbers 10024873, 10027646, and 10027798, regardless of the date the unit was manufactured or last serviced). Includes Auto-Belay Descenders (part number 10021806) manufactured or last serviced on or after June 30, 2000.
Based on these findings, MSA is advising affected users to discontinue using the Redpoint and Auto-Belay Descenders indicated above. Please forward this notice to all appropriate personnel.
A PDF of this update can be downloaded for your records by clicking on this link:
Auto-Belay System STOP USE Alert 11/2009.