Air Bag - Disposal Precautions: Overview

91mitsubishi08

NO. TSB-91-52B-002

DATE August, 1991

MODEL Sigma, Galant Sigma, 3000GT, Diamante


SUBJECT:

UNDEPLOYED AIR BAG MODULE - OUTSIDE
VEHICLE DEPLOYMENT FOR DISPOSAL


PURPOSE

This bulletin supersedes the air bag module outside vehicle deployment procedure shown in the Sigma V6, Galant Sigma, 3000GT, and Diamante Service Manuals. Use the procedures shown in this bulletin before discarding an undeployed air bag module. Refer to the Service Manual when deploying the air bag module inside the vehicle.


CAUTIONS/WARNINGS

An air bag is deployed by activating a small quantity of sodium azide, which is considered toxic when in its solid state. When ignited, sodium azide releases a large volume of nitrogen gas, a non-toxic gas. This inflates the air bag. Because the nitrogen gas is generated very rapidly, deployment is sudden, so proper precautions must be taken when deploying an air bag outside the vehicle. The following procedures are designed to minimize risk of personal injury when deploying an air bag module.

1. Perform the deployment on a wide, level ground with no persons or obstacles within a radius of 20 feet.

2. Deploying an air bag will produce a large amount of smoke. Select a well-ventilated site. Do not deploy an air bag module near a smoke detector. When an air bag is deployed three different kinds of "smoke" may be released: the bag lubricant (talc or corn starch) may appear. In addition, bag sealant (used as a preservative) and some small particles vented from the internal gas generator are sometimes released.

3. A loud noise is made when the air bag module is deployed. Avoid residential areas. If anyone is nearby, warn them of the impending noise.

4. Do not deploy during high wind conditions. When selecting a deployment site, place yourself and the deploying battery upwind of the air bag module.

5. Wear safety glasses and heavy gloves when handling a deployed module. IF DESPITE THESE PRECAUTIONS RESIDUE MATERIAL DOES GET INTO THE EYES OR ON THE SKIN, IMMEDIATELY RINSE THE AFFECTED AREA WITH A LARGE AMOUNT OF CLEAR WATER. IF ANY IRRITATION DEVELOPS, SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION.