Ortovox S1+ avalanche transceiver beacon.
This voluntary recall is somewhat surprising, not only because Ortovox is known for their solid products, but also since the recall goes back over the lifespan of the S1+ since July 2011 — seems like the issue would have become obvious much earlier. But kudos to Ortovox for jumping on this in a big way, and working with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (and we assume other entities worldwide). Ski touring is mainstream, and defective products should be treated this way, not swept under the office rug or even ignored as has happened in the past with everything from ski bindings to shovels.
LONGMONT, CO (For Immediate Release) – ORTOVOX is announcing an immediate product recall of the S1+ model avalanche transceiver due to a repairable hardware issue.
THE ACTION AFFECTS ALL S1+ MODELS distributed in the U.S. market since July, 2011. The previous design, known as the ORTOVOX S1, IS NOT AFFECTED.
The S1+ hardware deficiency may occur during transmission mode, limiting the ability to transmit a discoverable signal even as the unit appears to be powered on and functioning properly.
“ORTOVOX Germany discovered a potential transmission disruption through internal testing,” said Bill Hartrampf, President of Deuter U.S.A., distributor of Ortovox. “Because of our commitment to safety and quality, we are moving immediately to repair all units.”
This recall is being conducted in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.
Owners of the S1+ transceivers should stop using their beacons immediately and return the unit(s) to ORTOVOX c/o Deuter USA in Longmont, Colorado for repair. For complete instructions go to http://www.ortovox.com/4875–handling_recall.html.
Ortovox may also be contacted via: 877 384 9252, Monday through Friday 8:00 to 5:00 MST (email address redacted so as not to call the harvester bots)
7 comments
Hi Lou, it only affects to transceivers sold in the U.S?
It sounds like “U.S.” which is kind of odd. What about Canada and of course Europe? Or South America? I’ll check. Definitely need some clarification on that. Lou
IT IS WORLDWIDE.
Check the return link page, it has options for all countries.
http://www.ortovox.com/4875–handling_recall.html
Lou
Thank you, Ortovox. Recalls are hard and expensive.
I believe this is the correct link: http://www.ortovox.com/recall-s1plus . Quote from the page: ” We are striving to ensure the procedure runs smoothly so that you can receive your ORTOVOX S1+ in time for the next winter season.” Good luck if you need your avalanche transceiver for spring touring.
According to their website the first retrofits won’t happen until July and that loaners are limited to mountain rescue teams. Kinda sucks to have to wait so long. Good on them for notifying users, but they really should offer replacements given that this is their mistake.
Note that 3+ loaners are available to all users, but mountain rescue personnel is given first priority. My guess is that there would be more than enough loaners to meet demand for those still actively touring for the spring.
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