Deployed Air Bag Handling

When handling a deployed air bag assembly, a face shield and rubber gloves should be worn. Vehicle interior and A/C, vent, defroster and heater ducts should be vacuumed. If sinus or throat irritation is encountered during air bag removal, exit vehicle and breathe fresh air. If skin irritation is encountered, flush effected area with cool water. If sinus, throat, skin or any other type of irritation continues, consult a physician. After handling a deployed air bag assembly, wash hands and rinse thoroughly with water.

An air bag that has been deployed should be removed from the vehicle. Prior to removing a deployed air bag assembly, place tape over air bag exhaust vents. After unit has been removed, it should be placed in a heavy duty plastic bag and sealed securely. The sealed plastic bag should then be placed with automotive scrap. An air bag assembly that has not been deployed, must be deployed prior to disposal.

Put on a pair of shop gloves and safety glasses to protect your hands and eyes from possible irritation and heat when handling the deployed air bag assembly.

After the air bag assembly has been deployed, the surface of the air bag may contain a powdery residue. This powder consists primarily of cornstarch (used to lubricate the bag as it inflates) and by products of the chemical reaction. Sodium hydroxide dust (similar to lye soap) is produced as a by product of the deployment reaction. The sodium hydroxide then quickly reacts with atmospheric moisture and is converted to sodium carbonate and sodium bicarbonate (baking soda).

Driver Airbag Assembly
After the air bag assembly has been deployed, the surface of the air bag may contain a powdery residue. This powder consists primarily of cornstarch (used to lubricate the bag as it inflates) and by products of the chemical reaction. Sodium hydroxide dust (similar to lye soap) is produced as a by product of the deployment reaction. The sodium hydroxide then quickly reacts with atmospheric moisture and is converted to sodium carbonate and sodium bicarbonate (baking soda). Therefore, it is unlikely that sodium hydroxide will be present after deployment.


Passenger Airbag Assembly
The passenger inflator requires no special precaution after deployment. 95% of the particulate emission are potassium chloride (KCL), which is commonly sold as an edible salt-substitutes. even if water is applied. Post deployment products are relatively pH neutral. Disposing the inflator by burying it in a landfill will not products any hazardous products. As with any dusty environment, safety goggles, dust mask and gloves should be worn.