The Grigri 2

Gear manufacturer Petzl is sending replacement models of a recalled belay device to its UK distributor.

Cumbria-based Lyon Equipment has also produced a factsheet to help British customers return their GriGri 2 devices which the manufacturer has said should not be used.

The French company that makes the device discovered that if excessive force is used on its braking handle, this can cause internal damage, causing it to lock in the open position, posing potential danger in the event of a fall.

It is not aware, however, of any accidents involving the GriGri 2s.

It said all models bearing serial numbers below 11137 should be returned for a replacement.

Postage up to £6.50 will be reimbursed in the UK, and Lyon has arranged various other methods of returning the gear.

Petzl stressed that the original GriGri models are not affected by the recall, and recently manufactured devices, from the above serial onwards, have strengthened handles.

UK Climbers who have one of the GriGri 2 devices which are the subject of the recall can find details of how to return their gear on the Lyon Equipment information sheet.