Air Bag Systems: Service and Repair

HANDLING AIRBAGS

DEPLOYED AIRBAG

The vehicle interior may contain a very small amount of sodium hydroxide powder, a by-product of airbag deployment. Sodium hydroxide powder can irritate the skin, eyes, nose and throat. Wear safety glasses, rubber gloves, and long sleeved clothing when cleaning any of the powder residue from the vehicle.

If you find that the cleanup is irritating your skin, run cool water over the affected area. Also, if you experience nasal or throat irritation, exit the vehicle for fresh air until the irritation ceases. If irritation continues, see a physician.

UNDEPLOYED AIRBAG

The airbags must be stored in its original special container until used for service. At no time should a source of electricity be permitted near the inflator on the back of an airbag. When carrying or handling an undeployed airbag, the trim side of the airbag should be pointing toward the body to minimize possibility of injury if accidental deployment occurs. Do not place undeployed airbag face down on a solid surface, the airbag will propel into the air if accidental deployment occurs.