Rescue Services Guidelines

Observing occupant restraint systems
Guidelines for Rescue Services, smart, 2006 Page 31
Rescue
a Risk of injury Action
If using safety devices intended to protect
against airbag deployments after an accident,
there is a danger that these devices may be cata
pulted by the deploying airbag, presenting an
additional injury hazard for casualties and
rescuers alike.
We advise against the use of "protective devices"
that are intended to prevent a pressure buildup
by piercing holes in the airbag fabric because, if
the airbag is triggered, the hot ignition gases can
escape unhindered and cause burns.
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.
Avoid heating near undeployed airbags.
Do not place any objects near untriggered
airbags.
a Risk of injury Action
From contact with the airbag during deployment,
occupants may suffer slight reddening of the skin
and abrasions, e.g. on the insides of the forearms
or in the face.Slight irritation of the respiratory
passages cannot be ruled out.
The condition of the casualties must be assessed
as accurately as possible, and taking these
aspects into account, before deciding on further
suitable precautionary measures.
i The white, powdery residues left inside the
vehicle after deployment of an airbag are
nontoxic. They consist for the most part of
talcum, which acts as a lubricant for the airbag
fabric.
i The triggering strategies for the supple
mental restraint systems are subject to modifi
cation if necessary, e.g. due to new findings in
accident research.