Edelrid Via Ferrata Sets Recall Ongoing

Upgraded via ferrate sets from Edelrid feature higher spec lanyards with distinctive striping click to make bigger.

If you own an Edelrid Via Ferrata set then you may be aware that last month, the German company recalled certain models dating from 2010 to the present after a fatal accident involving a rented set.

The recall is still ongoing, and we're told that Edelrid is replacing the elasticated webbing in recalled sets with improved webbing which conforms to new standards and testing developed by the DAV (German Alpine Club) Safety Commission in response to concerns over the changing pattern of use on Via Ferratas.

The gist of it is that the increasing popularity of Via Ferratas means that hired equipment, in particular, which is used more frequently than personal equipment, so the DAV has developed a new test to take into account the long-term use of elasticated webbing arms (lanyards).

Since 3 September, 2012, returned sets have had upgraded webbing fitted by Edelrid and been returned to customers. The new, higher spec webbing is recognisable by a distinctive colour scheme with black webbing featuring a green stripe in the middle on one side and a blue stripe on the other, as in the image (left).

The sets covered by the recall are: 

• Cable Lite
•  Cable Comfort
•  Brenta Comfort
•  Cable Lite 2.0
•  Cable Comfort 2.0
•  Cable Kit 4.0
•  Xtra-Light Schuster

If you think you have one of the above, then don't use it. You can find full details of what to do at www.edelrid.de/en/recall.

Somewhat counter-intuitively, via ferrata falls actually place more strain on equipment than conventional climbing falls because there is no dynamic rope involved in the system. That means the full impact of the fall is passed straight on to the via ferrata rig and harness and is why special via ferrata sets have been developed which incorporate impact absorbing devices designed to absorb shock loading safely.