Air Bag Systems: Service Precautions

Safe handling of air bag modules requires following the procedures described below for both live and deployed air bags.
Always wear safety glasses when servicing an air bag vehicle and when handling an air bag module.
When carrying a live air bag module, ensure that bag and trim cover are pointed away from your body. In the unlikely event of an accidental deployment, the bag will then deploy with minimal chance of injury. In addition, when placing a live air bag module on a bench or other surface, always place bag and trim cover face up, away from the surface. This will reduce the motion of the module if it is accidentally deployed.
Safety precautions must also be observed when handling a deployed module. After deployment, the air bag surface may contain deposits of sodium hydroxide, a product of the gas generant combustion that is irritating to the skin. Always wear gloves and safety glasses when handling a deployed air bag module, and wash your hands with mild soap and water afterward.
Because of the critical operating requirements of the system, do not attempt to repair sensor assemblies, the slip ring/clockspring assembly, the monitor assembly or the air bag module. Corrections are made by replacement only.
Never probe the connectors on the air bag module. Doing so may result in air bag deployment which could result in personal injury.
All part replacements and wiring repairs must be made with battery ground cable disconnected.
The instruction ``Disconnect'' always refers to a connector. Never detach a part from vehicle when instructed to ``Disconnect.''
If a vehicle equipped with an air bag system is involved in a crash where the fenders or grille area have been damaged, the sensors in the area of damage should be replaced whether or not the air bag deployed.