Safety Check Airbag 3.0
SAFETY FIRST
Mammut asks customers to check that the cartridge is screwed into the airbag inflation system completely up to the stop
As a brand we stand for quality, safety and innovation since 1862 - but in very rare cases we are not completely flawless. Mammut therefore asks its customers who own a Mammut Generation 3.0 avalanche airbag with the Removable Airbag System (RAS) from the winter season 20/21 to check whether the cartridge is screwed all the way into the mechanism of the airbag inflation system. This must be guaranteed to ensure the proper functioning of the Avalanche Safety equipment.
All customers in possession of a Generation 3.0 avalanche airbag from the current winter 20/21 season are asked to check it using the instructions below or contact Mammut Customer Service. Generation 3.0, which has been available since the 16/17 season, can generally be identified by the neon-orange deployment handle - but only products from the current winter 20/21 season are affected. Older avalanche airbags from Generation 2.0 have a red activation handle and, like airbags from Generation 3.0 of the winter 16/17, 17/18, 18/19 or winter 19/20 seasons, are not affected.
It is very easy to identify whether the cartridge can be screwed in completely. The following inspection instructions will help you to carry out this check yourself. If the cartridge cannot be fully screwed in as described in the instructions, the affected airbag system may no longer be used and must be returned immediately to Mammut Customer Service for a free replacement. Mammut Customer Service is available at all times to answer any questions.
Thank you very much for following the call to the safety check - safety first! We apologize for the inconvenience and thank you for your understanding.
The affected Generation 3.0 airbag systems have a neon-orange deployment handle and were produced in winter 20/21.
The following items with Mammut Removable Airbag System (RAS) batch number 2011, which were delivered from the beginning of July 2020, should be checked:
- Pro X Removable Airbag 3.0 (2610-01820-0001-135)
- Light Removable Airbag 3.0 (2610-01501-0121-130)
- Pro Removable Airbag 3.0 (2610-01270-0001-145)
- Ride Removable Airbag 3.0 (2610-01250-50434-1030)
- Ultralight Removable Airbag 3.0 (2610-01520-0400-120)
- Flip Removable Airbag 3.0 (2610-01730-50434-1022)
- Flip Removable Airbag 3.0 (2610-01730-50430-1022)
- Pro X Women Removable Airbag 3.0 (2610-01840-50434-135)
- Pro X Removable Airbag 3.0 (2610-01820-50430-135)
Where can I find the batch number of my Generation 3.0 avalanche airbag?
You can find the batch number of your avalanche airbag in the main compartment of your backpack in the area of the cartridge fixat
Figure: Batch number label in the area of the cartridge fixation of the avalanche airbag
Not affected are all Mammut and Snowpulse systems of Generation 2.0 with red handle or Generation 3.0 neon-coloured deployment handle of the seasons winter 16/17, winter 17/18, winter 18/19 or winter 19/20.
Please open the main compartment of the backpack to have access to the mechanism of the airbag inflation system (lateral cartridge fixation).
Figure: avalanche airbag with opened backpack main compartment and cartridge fixation
IMPORTANT: the cartridge is completely screwed in when the black rubber seal of the cartridge is no longer visible!
Figure: correct installation of the cartridge in the mechanism of the airbag inflation system.
Figure: correct installation of the cartridge in the mechanism of the airbag inflation system – black rubber seal is not visible.
Figure: INCORRECTLY installed cartridge in the mechanism of the airbag inflation system - black rubber seal is still visible.
The cartridge can be screwed into the mechanism of the Airbag Inflation System up to the stop!
If the cartridge is screwed all the way into the mechanism of the Airbag Inflation System and the black rubber sealing ring of the cartridge is no longer visible, the cartridge is correctly installed in the mechanism of the Inflation System. Your airbag is fully functional after the cartridge has been correctly installed in the Airbag Inflation System and the rucksack is ready for use again.
Note: For instructions on how to correctly install the cartridge in the mechanism of the airbag inflation system and backpack, please refer to the airbag user manual ↗.
The cartridge can NOT be screwed completely into the mechanism of the airbag inflation system up to the stop!
If the cartridge CANNOT be screwed all the way into the mechanism of the Airbag Inflation System and the black rubber ring of the cartridge is visible, the airbag inflation system is fault.
The affected airbag system may no longer be used and must be returned immediately to Mammut Customer Service for a free replacement!
If you are unsure about the correct fixation between airbag balloon and airbag inflation system, please contact Mammut Customer Service.
1. What can I do if I cannot check and repair the product on my own?
Please contact Mammut Customer Service. You can send the airbag to us free of charge and we will test it.
2. What exactly is the problem and the security risk?
If the cartridge is incorrectly installed in the mechanism of the airbag inflation system, the airbag balloon will NOT inflate correctly after deployment. Due to its incorrect function, the airbag cannot effectively protect the user from partial burial or burial in the event of an avalanche.
3. Has this installation problem led to any accidents?
This appeal for inspection is precautionary and we are not aware of any accidents. The installation problem was discovered during a routine quality and warehouse check.
4. Can my airbag system be permanently damaged by the installation error?
No - if the cartridge can be correctly screwed into the mechanism of the airbag inflation system, the system will work properly. Mammut will replace airbag systems that have been incorrectly installed with new airbag systems.
5. Is the installation problem only possible if the installation was carried out by Mammut, or is it possible if I installed the system myself?
Routine checks identified occasional installation problems of the airbag inflation system in Mammut's production plant. The error can be excluded if the cartridge is screwed into the airbag inflation system up to the stop and the black rubber sealing ring of the cartridge is no longer visible.
6. Are avalanche airbags by the licensed brands Evoc, Dakine, Jones, Thule, Rip Curl and Norrona also affected? Yes, the airbag systems 3.0 used in the licensee brands may also be affected by the installation error, even if these backpacks are delivered without an installed airbag system. Our licensees were informed immediately so that the inspection of their products could be initiated. If you own an airbag backpack of a Mammut licensee brand, we ask you to check the airbag system as well. The error can be excluded if the cartridge is screwed into the airbag inflation system up to the stop and the black rubber sealing ring of the cartridge is no longer visible.
If you have any further questions, please contact Mammut Customer Service.
Airbag balloon safety check
All customers who own a Generation 3.0 avalanche airbag from the Winter 16/17, Winter 17/18 or Winter 18/19 seasons (neon-colored deployment handle) are requested to check them according to the following instructions or to contact Mammut Customer Service. Avalanche airbags from previous seasons (red deployment handle) are not affected.
It is easy to identify whether the airbag is attached correctly (see the checking instructions). If the airbag balloon is not properly attached to the airbag inflation system, in some cases the airbag may lose volume too quickly after deployment. As a result, the airbag’s functionality may be impaired in the event of burial by an avalanche.
If you identify that the airbag balloon is attached incorrectly, the affected airbag system should no longer be used and must be returned immediately to Mammut Customer Service to be replaced. In the event of any queries, Mammut Customer Service will be happy to help.
Thank you for reacting to this call for inspection - Safety First!
The affected Generation 3.0 airbag systems have a neon orange deployment handle. Mammut RAS and PAS systems and Snowpulse Highmark brand products with the Mammut Airbag System 3.0 must be checked. Generation 2.0 Mammut and Snowpulse systems (red handle) are not affected.
Use the hook and loop fastener to carefully open the airbag compartment without unfolding the airbag balloon.
Comment: If the airbag balloon unfolds when you open the airbag compartment, fold it up again as described in the Usera Guide after the safety check.
Figure: Mammut Protection Airbag System (PAS)
Figure: Mammut Removable Airbag System (RAS)
Figure: Mammut Protection Airbag System (PAS)
Figure: Mammut Removable Airbag System (RAS)
Check the attachment of the clamp ring by trying to move the clamp ring using your thumb and index finger.
Important: The clamp ring needs to stay securely in place without turning or moving when you apply pressure with your fingers!
Figure: Mammut Protection Airbag System (PAS)
Figure: Mammut Removable Airbag System (RAS)
Clamp ring stays in place.
If the clamp ring stays securely in place without turning or moving under pressure from your thumb and index finger, the airbag balloon is correctly attached to the airbag inflation system. Simply stow the airbag balloon in the airbag compartment of the backpack and your airbag will be ready to use again.
Comment: For instructions on the correct folding and installation of the airbag balloon, refer to the Airbag User Manual.
Clamp ring turns or moves.
If you can turn or move the clamp ring using your thumb and index finger, the airbag balloon is NOT correctly attached to the airbag inflation system and there is an assembly fault.
The affected airbag system should no longer be used and must be returned immediately to Mammut Customer Service to be replaced
If in doubt about whether the airbag balloon is correctly attached to the airbag inflation system, please contact
Important: The balloon must not be twisted when attached to the outlet of the inflation system (see sketch)
1. What can I do if I cannot check the product on my own?
Please contact our Customer Service. You can send the airbag to us free of charge and we will check it.
2. What exactly is the problem and what is the safety risk?
In the event of a fault in the attachment of the airbag balloon to the airbag inflation system, the airbag balloon will inflate correctly after deployment, but it will not be able to maintain the pressure. As a result of this loss of pressure, the airbag may not provide the user with effective protection from partial or complete burial in the event of an avalanche.
3. Have any fatal accidents occurred in connection with this assembly fault?
At present, we are not aware of any fatal accidents linked to this assembly fault. To rule out any risk for our customers, we have decided to carry out a precautionary inspection. The assembly fault was discovered during a routine quality and warehouse check.
4. Is it possible that the assembly fault has caused permanent damage to my airbag system?
No – if the airbag balloon is correctly attached to the airbag inflation system, the system will work perfectly. Mammut will replace airbag systems identified as faulty with new ones.
5. Can the attachment of the airbag balloon to the airbag inflation system become loose during use after the check?
No, this is not possible. When installing the system in a Mammut or other backpack yourself, please read the corresponding user guide carefully. Please comply with the information provided by Mammut in relation to regular and periodic care and maintenance of the airbag system.
6. Is the assembly fault only possible if the assembly was carried out by Mammut, or is it possible if I assembled the system myself?
Certain assembly faults in Mammut's production plant were identified during routine checks. The problem should not occur if you installed it correctly in accordance with the user guide.
7. Are avalanche airbags by the licensed brands (Evoc, Dakine, Jones, Thule, Rip Curl and Norrona) also affected?
Yes, the airbag system 3.0 used in licensed brands may also be affected, even if these backpacks are supplied without an installed airbag system. Please check the airbag system you are using in an airbag backpack from a Mammut licensed brand.
8. Avalanche airbags by various brands have often been impacted by recalls and calls for inspection in the last few years. Is this technology really safe?
Avalanche airbags are based on relatively new, complex technology, which is constantly being improved. However, overall, avalanche airbags have saved many lives and such measures to fix problems have prevented accidents.
Deployment cable safety check
All customers in possession of a Generation 3.0 avalanche airbag (neon orange deployment handle) of Winter 16/17 and Winter 17/18 seasons are requested to test them in accordance with the following instructions or contact Mammut Customer Service. Avalanche airbags from previous seasons (red deployment handle) are not impacted. The installation problem is easy to identify and fix.
In some cases, incorrect installation of the system may have caused significant bending of the deployment cable. This could have a negative effect on the functioning of the avalanche airbag after repeated deployment. If you identify the installation problem described in the instructions, please rectify it immediately in accordance with the following instructions. If you are in any way unsure, please contact Mammut Customer Service.
Thank you for reacting to this appeal for inspection - Safety First
All impacted airbags (Generation 3.0) have a neon orange deployment handle. Mammut RAS and PAS systems and Snowpulse Highmark brand products with the Mammut Airbag System 3.0 must be checked.
Generation 2.0 Mammut and Snowpulse systems (red handle) are not impacted.
The compartment with the hook and loop fastener that contains the airbag itself, does not have to be opened.
...if it is screwed in.
Of the deployment cable:
The area in which the black cable exits the deployment unit should be clearly visible. The Bowden cable should also feed into the shoulder strap without any significant bending. If this is the case, then the product has been installed correctly and your airbag is ready for use once the cartridge has been screwed in. If the cable is not clearly visible (as shown in the illustration on the right) and there is significant bending, please fix the problem as follows:
Open the shoulder strap zipper under which the deployment handle is located.
Pull the cable sharply above the hook.
Into the deployment unit. Once you have screwed in the cartridge, your airbag rucksack is ready for use.
You can check that it has been correctly installed by conducting a training deployment. Please use the Trigger Test Tool supplied and follow the steps described in Chapter 5.5 of the ↗manual delivered with the product. Please conduct the training deployment twice.
1. What can I do if I cannot check and repair the product on my own?
Please contact Mammut Customer Service. You can send the airbag to us free of charge and we will test it.
2. What exactly is the problem and what is the safety risk?
Although the system functions reliably upon initial deployment, once the new cartridge is screwed in, the appropriate tension may in certain cases be lacking in the mechanism, as significant bending of the cable can cause friction. In some cases this can cause the system not to deploy correctly.
3. Has this installation problem led to any accidents?
This appeal for inspection is precautionary and we are not aware of any accidents. The installation problem was discovered during a routine quality and warehouse check.
4. Is it possible that the installation problem has caused permanent damage to my airbag system?
No - as soon as the cable is fed correctly, the system works perfectly well. In certain cases there may be slight damage to the black plastic cable sheath where it is connected to the deployment unit. However, this will not in any way impact the functioning of the product. If you are in any way unsure, please contact Mammut Customer Service.
5. Can the cable slip into the wrong position again once the airbag has been used?
No, this is not possible. When installing the system in a Mammut or other backpack yourself, please read the corresponding user guide carefully. The installation problem may occur again if you do not follow the user guide.
6. Is the installation problem only possible if the installation was carried out by Mammut, or is it possible if I installed the system myself?
Routine checks identified certain installation problems in Mammut's production plant. The problem should not occur if you installed it correctly in accordance with the user guide.
7. Are avalanche airbags by the licensed brands Dakine, Thule, Rip Curl and Noröna also impacted?
No - these backpacks were supplied without a mounted airbag system. When installing the system in a Mammut or other backpack yourself, please read the corresponding user guide carefully. The installation problem may occur if you do not follow the user guide.
8. Avalanche airbags by various brands have often been impacted by recalls and appeals for inspection. Is this technology really safe?
Avalanche airbags are based on relatively new, complex technology, which is constantly being improved. However, overall, avalanche airbags have saved many lives and such measures to fix problems have prevented accidents and any potential fatalities from being caused by the system failing.
If you have any further questions, please contact Mammut Customer Service.