MSA recently became aware of two incidents where climbers using the Redpoint Descender experienced a rapid rate of descent. The companys initial investigation indicates that under certain use conditions the model of one-way bearing used in some of the descenders may not operate as intended for this application and can result in the brakes not engaging during descent.
MSA asks that anyone using the descenders indicated immediately remove all affected descenders from service and return them to MSA for installation of a new one-way bearing. The one-way bearing in question was used on Redpoint Descenders manufactured from August 27, 2004 through April 6, 2005. It was also installed on certain Redpoint and Auto-Belay Descenders serviced during this time period. A notice has been issued to customers who may have these units.
