Live (Undeployed) Inflator Modules
Proper Live Inflator Module Handling:
Proper Storage Of Inflator Module:
HANDLING AND STORAGE PROCEDURE
Special care is necessary when handling and storing a live (undeployed) inflator module. The rapid gas generation produced during an air bag deployment could cause inflator module, or object in front of the inflator module, to be thrown through the air in the unlikely event of an accidental deployment.
CAUTION: When carrying a live inflator module, make sure the bag STGT and trim cover are pointed away from you. In case of an accidental deployment, the bag will then deploy with minimal chance of injury. When placing a live inflatable module on a bench or other surface, always face the bag and trim cover up, away from the surface. This is necessary so that a free space is provided to allow the air bag to expand in the unlikely event of accidental deployment. Never rests steering column assembly on the steering wheel with the inflator module face down and the column vertical. Otherwise, personal injury may result. Also, never carry the inflator module by the wires or connector on the underside of the module.
SHIPPING PROCEDURE
Buick dealers should refer to the latest Buick Service Bulletin for proper inflator module shipping procedures. All others should contact a local Buick dealership for proper inflator module shipping procedures.
Transportation of uninstalled inflator modules is regulated by the Hazardous Materials Regulations of the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and most state governments. Special procedures are required for transportation. General Motors recommends that dealers and repair shops check with the Hazardous Material of their respective state police authority for applicable shipping requirements.
For all shipments on public roads, the DOT has classified the uninstalled inflator module as a flammable solid under a special exemption process. It should always be shipped and stored in the approved cardboard container in which it is purchased. Container should be marked with "Flammable Solid, n.o.s., UN1325, DOT-E8236" and labeled with the specified red and white flammable solid label. Each shipping location must have a copy of exemption of file. A shipping paper (eg., a customer receipt) must accompany each shipment and identify module as "Flammable Solid, n.o.s., UN1325, DOT-E8236." Transportation, storage and handling of inflator modules should be in accordance with exemption and requirements for a DOT flammable solid. Do not expose module to heat, open flame, impact, friction, or electrical charge.
SCRAPPING PROCEDURE
CAUTION: Failure to follow proper SIR inflator module disposal procedures can result in air bag deployment which may cause personal injury. Undeployed inflator modules must not be disposed of through normal refuse channels. The undeployed inflator module contains substances that can cause severe illness or personal injury if sealed container is damaged during disposal. Disposal in any manner inconsistent with proper procedures may be a violation of federal, state and/or local laws.
During the course of a vehicle's useful life, certain situations may arise which necessitate the disposal of a live (undeployed) inflator module. This information covers proper procedures for disposing of a live inflator module.
Before a live inflator module can be disposed of, it must be deployed. Live inflator modules must not be disposed of through normal refuse channels.
If a vehicle is the subject of a Product Liability Report related to the SIR system and is subject to a Preliminary Investigation (GM-1241), DO NOT DEPLOY the Inflator module and DO NOT ALTER the SIR system in any manner. Refer to the applicable service bulletin on SIR shipping procedures for details on handling SIR systems involved with GM-1241. If a vehicle is the subject of a campaign affecting inflator modules, DO NOT DEPLOY the inflator module. Follow instructions in the Campaign Service Bulletin for proper disposition of the inflator module.
If an inflator module is replaced under warranty, DO NOT DEPLOY the air bag. The inflator module may need to be returned, undeployed, to Inland Fisher Guide. Refer to "Shipping Procedure".
In situations which require deployment of a live (undeployed) inflator module, deployment may not be accomplished inside or outside the vehicle. The method employed depends upon the final disposition of the particular vehicle, as noted in "Deployment Outside Vehicle" and "Deployment Inside Vehicle". Deployment Outside Vehicle (Driver Inflator Module) Deployment Inside Vehicle (Vehicle Scrapping Procedure)