Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Air Bags



Air Bags

Highly flammable, explosive - observe No Smoking policy.

Used within the vehicle as safety restraints.

The inflator contains a high-energy propellant which, when ignited, produces a VERY HOT GAS (2500 degree C).

The gas inflator (generator) used in air bags is Sodium Azide. This material is hermetically sealed in each air bag module and is completely consumed during deployment. No attempt should be made to open an air bag inflator as this will lead to the risk of exposure to Sodium Azide. If a gas generator is ruptured, full protective clothing should be worn when dealing with the spillage.

After normal deployment, gloves and safety goggles should be worn during the handling process.

Deployed air bags should be disposed of in a plastic bag in accordance with local regulations at an approved chemical waste site.

Following any direct contact with Sodium Azide:
^ Wash affected areas thoroughly with water.
^ SEEK IMMEDIATE MEDICAL ASSISTANCE.

Air Bags - Do's
^ Do store modules in an upright position.
^ Do keep modules dry.
^ Do carry modules with the cover side pointing away from the body.
^ Do place modules with their cover side upwards.
^ Do carefully inspect modules for damage.
^ Do stand to one side when connecting modules.
^ Do make sure all test equipment is properly calibrated and maintained.
^ Do wash hands after handling deployed air bags.

Air Bags - Do Not
^ Do Not store highly flammable material together with modules or gas generators.
^ Do Not store gas generators at temperatures exceeding 80 degree C.
^ Do Not store modules upside down.
^ Do Not attempt to open a gas generator housing.
^ Do Not expose gas generators to open flame or sources of heat.
^ Do Not place anything on top of a module cover.
^ Do Not use damaged modules.
^ Do Not touch a fired module or gas generator for at least 10 minutes after firing.
^ Do Not use any electrical probes on the wiring circuit.