AQUALUNG Recalls Buoyancy Compensator Devices Due to Injury and Drowning Hazards
Recall 23021 · Oct 20, 2022 · Aqualung
330
units affected
330
units affected
Facts
- Recall number
- 23021
- Date
- Oct 20, 2022
- Company
- Aqualung
- Units affected
- 330
- Product
- Apeks Exotec SCUBA Diving Buoyancy Compensator Devices (BCDs)
- Remedy
- Repair
- Hazard
- Crash risk
The product
This recall involves Apeks Exotec SCUBA Diving Buoyancy Compensator Devices (BCDs). The Exotec is a back flotation-style BCD used to control a SCUBA diver's buoyancy underwater. The Apeks brand and Exotec model name are embroidered on the back panel and side pockets of the BCD and the metal components are gray or orange. Only model numbers BT1380108ML, BT1380108XLXXL, BT1380110ML and BT1380110XLXXL are included in the recall. The model number is printed on the label tucked behind the bladder between the tank attachment belt and the lower dump valve.
What can happen
The dump valve knob can get stuck when the recalled BCD is inflated, opening the dump valve which stops the BCD from fully inflating. This can result in a loss of buoyancy control and poses injury (decompression sickness) and drowning hazards.
The fix
Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled buoyancy compensator devices and take them back to the place where purchased for a free repair. If a consumer is unable to return the product to a dealer where purchased, they should reach out to AQUALUNG directly for instructions to receive a free repair.
Incidents and where it was sold
- Incidents
- The firm has received one report of buoyancy control loss due to a dump valve stuck open. No injuries have been reported.
- Sold at
- Dive stores nationwide and online at Aqualung.com and other diver supply online retailers from August 2021 through June 2022 for about $1,000.
Related pages
Questions and answers
What should I do with the recalled apeks exotec scuba diving buoyancy compensator devices (bcds)?
Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled buoyancy compensator devices and take them back to the place where purchased for a free repair. If a consumer is unable to return the product to a dealer where purchased, they should reach out to AQUALUNG directly for instructions to receive a free repair.
What is the hazard?
The dump valve knob can get stuck when the recalled BCD is inflated, opening the dump valve which stops the BCD from fully inflating. This can result in a loss of buoyancy control and poses injury (decompression sickness) and drowning hazards.
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.