Rescue Services Guidelines

Observing occupant restraint systems
Guidelines for Rescue Services, smart, 2006 Page 27
Rescue
a Risk of injury Action
When disconnecting the batteries or when cutting
electrical lines, the ground lines must always be
disconnected or cut first, otherwise there is a
risk of short circuit.
If this is not possible, insulated tools must be
used to disconnect or cut the cables.
a Risk of injury Action
There is a risk of injury in the deployment area of
undeployed airbags.
If, during rescue work, where the battery has not
been disconnected, parts of the vehicle undergo
significant movement or electrical lines are cut,
then an airbag (front airbag, sidebag or
windowbag) may be deployed. If this happens,
then the airbag as well as loose objects and glass
splinters may be thrown against the casualty or
the rescuers, causing injuries.
Cover the occupants before commencing work,
preferably with a transparent sheet.
Wear protective clothing/safety glasses.
Disconnect all batteries. If this is not possible,
keep well away from undeployed airbags.
Do not perform cutting work near undeployed
airbags.
Avoid heating near undeployed airbags.
Do not place any objects near untriggered
airbags.
i Merely cutting through the steering wheel
rim or the spokes will not usually trigger the
airbag.