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Apeks Exotec SCUBA Diving Buoyancy Compensator Devices (BCDs)

CPSC Recall #23-021 — October 20, 2022

Recall Summary

Recall Number23-021
Recall DateOctober 20, 2022
Remedy TypeRepair
Units Affected330
ManufacturerAQUALUNG Group, of Carlsbad, California
Manufactured InMexico

Where It Was Sold

Dive stores nationwide and online at Aqualung.com and other diver supply online retailers from August 2021 through June 2022 for about $1
000.

Product

Apeks Exotec SCUBA Diving Buoyancy Compensator Devices (BCDs)

Description

This recall involves Apeks Exotec SCUBA Diving Buoyancy Compensator Devices (BCDs). The Exotec is a back flotation-style BCD used to control a SCUBA diver’s buoyancy underwater. The Apeks brand and Exotec model name are embroidered on the back panel and side pockets of the BCD and the metal components are gray or orange. Only model numbers BT1380108ML, BT1380108XLXXL, BT1380110ML and BT1380110XLXXL are included in the recall.  The model number is printed on the label tucked behind the bladder between the tank attachment belt and the lower dump valve.

Hazard

The dump valve knob can get stuck when the recalled BCD is inflated, opening the dump valve which stops the BCD from fully inflating. This can result in a loss of buoyancy control and poses injury (decompression sickness) and drowning hazards.

Incidents & Injuries

The firm has received one report of buoyancy control loss due to a dump valve stuck open. No injuries have been reported.

Remedy Instructions

Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled buoyancy compensator devices and take them back to the place where purchased for a free repair. If a consumer is unable to return the product to a dealer where purchased, they should reach out to AQUALUNG directly for instructions to receive a free repair.

What Should You Do?

Stop using this product immediately. Contact the manufacturer for a Repair at no charge. If you experienced an injury, report it at SaferProducts.gov.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Follow the consumer action instructions in the recall notice above. Most recalls require you to stop using the product and contact the manufacturer directly — either by calling the toll-free number listed in the official CPSC notice or by visiting the manufacturer's website. You generally do not need a receipt or original packaging to claim a remedy. The manufacturer is legally required to provide the remedy (Repair) at no cost to you.

Yes. If you were injured by a defective consumer product — whether recalled or not — you may have grounds for a product liability claim against the manufacturer and potentially the retailer. A recall notice can serve as evidence that the manufacturer was aware of the defect. Injuries that may support a claim include burns, lacerations, fractures, electric shock, choking incidents, and chemical exposure. Most product liability attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless you win. Consult an attorney promptly, as statutes of limitation vary by state.

In most cases, no. CPSC-coordinated recall remedies are designed to be accessible without proof of purchase. Manufacturers typically ask consumers to self-certify ownership and may ask for photos of the product or its serial number. Some manufacturers request that you mail in a portion of the product (such as a cut cord or removed component) as proof of disposal. Check the specific remedy instructions for this recall for exact requirements. If you registered your product at the time of purchase, the process is usually even simpler.

If the original manufacturer has gone out of business, the recall remedy may no longer be available through them. In this case, contact CPSC directly at 1-800-638-2772 or cpsc.gov for guidance. If the brand was acquired by another company, the acquiring company may have assumed recall obligations. In some cases where a remedy is unavailable, CPSC advises consumers to safely dispose of the product. If you were injured by the product of a defunct company, consult a product liability attorney — parent companies, distributors, and retailers may still bear liability in some circumstances.

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