PPE Climbing Equipment

Five types of climbing equipment have been inspected: mountaineering ropes, harnesses, energy absorbing systems, connectors and helmets. In all, 185 models have been sampled and tested. The checks on markings and documents revealed a significant number of models placed on the market without any accompanying information. This clearly increases the risk of accidents due to misuse of the equipment. In all, 102 (55%) of the products sampled had one or more non-conformities with respect to markings or documentation. 37 models (20%) failed one or more of the performance tests. 14 products were considered to present a serious risk, 16 a high risk, 19 a medium risk and 10 a low risk.
This has resulted thus far in 53 voluntary measures to bring products into conformity, 18 voluntary product withdrawals and 4 recalls. In addition, the authorities have imposed 3 measures to bring products into conformity, withdrawn 30 products from the market and instigated 20 recalls. A total of 11 Safety Gate notifications for dangerous products were made as follows: 2 for dynamic ropes, 3 for harnesses, 2 for energy absorbing systems for via ferrata climbing and 4 for helmets.

CONSUMER ADVICE:

    • Select climbing equipment appropriate to your climbing activity;
    • Only accept equipment bearing the CE marking and accompanied by an information leaflet supplied by the     manufacturer;
    • Use the equipment in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions;
    • Always check your equipment before setting out – discard and replace any worn or damaged equipment –     your life may depend on it!