....in the real world ( the one without the RAF chain of command and, at times, self justification structure ) I have deployed several life ex.slides that duly dangled in the metaphorical breeze...never grounded a fleet however. No need.
Leaving your stupid anti-RAF sniping aside, this wasn't an inflation failure, the whole escape slide fell off.
How many others were similarly affected? It wouldn't have taken long to have conducted a quick physical check of the fleet.
Years and years ago, the static line between the seat and the parachute of a Gnat was found to be disconnected. A fleet check revealed several others and it was soon established that this was due to sabotage by a disaffected airman who didn't like being in Anglesey. I hope he enjoyed Colchester rather less...
Safety equipment
does matter; I don't know of any operator who would think otherwise, nor would I wish to fly with them.