Aqua Lung Expands Recall of Buoyancy Compensators Due to Drowning Hazard
Recall 15022 · Nov 12, 2014 · Aqua Lung
30,000
units affected
30,000
units affected
Facts
- Recall number
- 15022
- Date
- Nov 12, 2014
- Company
- Aqua Lung
- Units affected
- 30,000
- Product
- Aqua Lung buoyancy compensators with SureLock II weight pocket handles
- Product type
- Scuba Diving
- Remedy
- Replacement
- Hazard
- Drowning
The product
This recall involves all Aqua Lung buoyancy compensator vests with SureLock II rubber handles attached to the weight pockets, including those with SureLock II handles that were replaced in the previous recall. The handles are gray rubber, measure about 2 inches tall by 4 inches wide and extend from the forward end of the ditchable weight pockets. SureLock II handles were installed in most Aqua Lung and one model of Apeks buoyancy compensators including: all discontinued Black Diamond, Pro QD and Pro QDi3 models with serial numbers lower than BB408620. The recall also includes all Apeks Black Ice, Axiom, Axiom i3, Balance, Dimension, Libra, Lotus, Pearl, Pearl i3, ProLT and Zuma models with serial numbers lower than BB408620. The buoyancy compensator's model name is embroidered on the inside back pad or on the right lobe. "Sure Lock" is molded into the back of the weight pocket. The serial numbers are located on a tag under the back pad of the buoyance compensator or inside the pocket. Earlier models could have the number printed on a tag behind the hook and loop inflator hold down on the left shoulder.
What can happen
The rubber handles can detach as divers are trying to remove the weight pockets to rise to the surface in an emergency. This poses a drowning hazard.
The fix
Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled buoyancy compensators and return the two weight pockets to an authorized Aqua Lung dealer to receive a free inspection and free newly-designed replacement weight pocket handles.
Incidents and where it was sold
- Incidents
- Aqua Lung is aware of an additional 50 reports of the handles detaching from the weight pockets. No injuries have been reported.
- Sold at
- Sporting goods and scuba diving stores nationwide from September 2008 through October 2014 for between $460 and $700 for the buoyancy compensator with the weight pockets.
Related pages
Questions and answers
What should I do with the recalled aqua lung buoyancy compensators with surelock ii weight pocket handles?
Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled buoyancy compensators and return the two weight pockets to an authorized Aqua Lung dealer to receive a free inspection and free newly-designed replacement weight pocket handles.
What is the hazard?
The rubber handles can detach as divers are trying to remove the weight pockets to rise to the surface in an emergency. This poses a drowning hazard.
A recall means the maker found a safety problem and offers a free fix; it does not mean every unit has the problem. Units affected are as reported by the company. Popular models sell more and so have more recalls and complaints. Official public data; texts are shortened. Contact the company named above for the remedy.