CF. Cleaning Up After an Airbag Has Been Released

CFA. Cleaning Up After An Airbag Has Been Released


NOTE: Cars with released airbags MUST BE TOWED from the scene and NOT DRIVEN! DO NOT PUT THE AIR BAG back into the module. Four-wheel drive cars must not be towed with just one wheel axle lifted.


CFA1.

When an airbag is released fired, powder is dispersed into the car. The powder consists mainly of ordinary talcum powder which acts as a lubricant. The chemical reaction creating the gas can produce certain by-products, for example, sodium hydroxide which, if handled carelessly, can cause irritation.

When handling this powder note the following: Use the following protective equipment when decontaminating a car with a released airbag:

Gloves
Safety goggles
Overalls
Mouth guard.

Long-term exposure to the powder (without the protective equipment mentioned above) can produce the following symptoms:

Eye contact: Symptoms Pain/Irritation
Action Rinse immediately with water for at least 15 minutes. Contact a doctor if symptoms persist.

Skin contact: Symptoms Pain
Action Wash with a mild liquid soap and water.

In a wound: Symptoms The injury can worsen, but always try to avoid exposing it.

Action Cleanse thoroughly.
In the hair: Action Wash and rinse thoroughly.


CFA2. Methods For Decontamination





Vacuum thoroughly.
Fully open all the ventilation openings





Turn the blower onto its highest setting
Turn the controls so that all the ducts are blown through for at least 5 minutes.






Vacuum thoroughly again
Wash the glass and plastic surfaces with soap and water.