Technician Safety Information
WARNING:- The driver and passenger must be prepared to brace themselves if the retractor does not lock.
- The maximum brake application should be on dry concrete or equivalent hard surface, NEVER on wet pavement or gravel.
- The driver and passenger must be prepared to brace themselves in the event the retractor does not lock.
- After any vehicle collision, the safety belt system at all seating positions (except driver, which has no "automatic locking retractor" feature) must be checked by a qualified technician to verify that the "automatic locking" feature for child seats is still functioning properly, in addition to other checks for proper safety belt system function. A safety belt assembly must be replaced if the safety belt assembly's "automatic locking retractor" feature or any other safety belt function is not operating properly when checked according to the procedures. Failure to replace the safety belt retractor assembly could increase the risk of injury in collisions.
- All safety belt assemblies including retractors, buckles, front seat belt buckle support assemblies (slide bar), shoulder belt height adjusters, child safety seat tether attachments (if equipped), and attaching hardware should be inspected after any collision. New belt assemblies should be installed unless a qualified technician finds the assemblies show no damage and operate correctly. Belt assemblies not in use during a collision should also be inspected and replaced if either damage or incorrect operation is noted.
- Always wear safety glasses when repairing an air bag supplemental restraint system (SRS) vehicle and when handling a safety belt retractor/pretensioner assembly. This will reduce the risk of injury in the event of an accidental deployment.
- The safety belt pretensioner is a pyrotechnic device. Always wear safety glasses when repairing an air bag equipped vehicle and when handling a safety belt buckle pretensioner or safety belt retractor pretensioner. Never probe a pretensioner electrical connector. Doing so could result in pretensioner or air bag deployment and could result in personal injury.
- Carry a live safety belt retractor pretensioner or safety belt buckle pretensioner so as to keep fingers and clothing away from moveable parts. This will reduce the risk of injury in the event of an accidental deployment.
- Remote deployment is to be performed outdoors with all personnel at least 6.1 meters (20 feet) away to ensure personal safety. Due to the loud report which occurs when the air bag is deployed, hearing protection is required.