Recall: Ski Bindings Recalled by Tyrolia

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 3, 1988
Release # 88-011

Tyrolia Recalls Ski Bindings

WASHINGTON, DC -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Tyrolia Freizeitgerate of Austria, makers of ski equipment, today announced the voluntary recall in the United States of 450,000 1982-1986 model Tyrolia ski bindings because of toe and heel lug breakage, which can pose a risk of serious injury to skiers.

Generally, should breakage occur, it will happen while the boot is being inserted into the binding. Should the lug break during usage, however, serious injuries associated with loss of control could occur, such as fractures and soft tissue injuries. To date, there have been reports of five injuries in the United States that may be related to a lug failure of this type.

The toe lug is the U-shaped uppermost movable component of the toe of the ski binding. The heel lug is the U-shaped piece at the front of the binding's heel. Their function is to hold the sole of the ski boot to the ski. (See attached illustration)

The recall includes the following models, in the specified toe lug colors, but only those with a production code on the heel either beginning with the letter or ending with the number specified below, or both. The production number is stamped on the right side of the base of the heel piece; it car be seen more readily with a magnifying glass.

No ski bindings with red lugs are affected. Consumers whose bindings are listed above should immediately discontinue their use. Tyrolia requests that these models of ski bindings, with the skier's boots and skis, be taken to the place of purchase, if possible, or the nearest Tyrolia authorized retailer. Recalled product returned to the retailer by April 30, l988 - the end of the ski season - will be replaced at no charge for the product or remounting. For recalled product returned to the store after April 30, 1988, the customer has the choice of a completely reconditioned product at no charge for the product or remounting, or a new and current similar model at a charge of $21 for adult models or $18 for junior models in the United States, including remounting. The charge in Canada will be $25 for adult models or $20 for junior models, including remounting. Resort area dealers will have only limited quantities of replacement stock available so consumers should not wait until they arrive at a resort to seek replacement before April 30.

In explaining the recall, Dr. Klaus Holzl, Director of Development Engineering at Tyrolia, said, "Our paramount concern is the safety of all skiers. Because we have high industry standards of quality and reliability, we have always stood behind our products. We therefore urge customers to discontinue us of these models of bindings and see their dealer as soon as possible."

Consumers with any questions may call Tyrolia toll-free at 1-800-343-5999 in the United States, or in Canada, 1-800-265-7252.