72 12 ... Notes On Scrapping Vehicles With Gas Generators (Airbag System)
The gas generator is a pyrotechnical component and is for the most part permanently mounted on the following components:
- Airbag module
- Driver's/passenger airbag
- Side airbag
- Head airbag (e.g. AHPS2)
- Knee airbag Belt tensioner
- Belt buckle tensioner
- Safety battery terminal
- Active head restraint
In accordance with accident prevention regulations and specific national regulations, gas generators must be rendered unusable before they are scrapped. This is necessary because pyrotechnical objects can cause injury if improperly activated (e.g. scrapping with flame cutters).
With vehicles which are scheduled for scrapping, it is always essential prior to draining and further stripping work to ensure that all the gas generators in the vehicle are fired. The fired gas generators can then be scrapped together with the vehicle.
Gas generators that have not fired constitute a hazard (also to the environment)!
Firing failure:
If correct firing is not possible, the relevant components must be removed and disposed of by special waste disposal companies!
Comply with SAFETY REGULATIONS for handling airbag system components.
If a firing operation has failed:
- Disconnect the firing device from the battery and
- Only approach the vehicle after a few minutes have elapsed
The components of an airbag system must always be disposed of. Such components must not be sold on as used parts.
Firing:
Firing of the gas generators may only be carried out by expert personnel and under the supervision of a responsible person. Other standard accident prevention regulations (safety goggles, ear defenders etc.) must also be observed.
The gas generators must be fired from the outside in this vehicle which has been earmarked for scrapping. In this process
- the doors must be closed
- the rear lid must be open the
- side windows must be open and
- the sunroof must be open
To fire the gas generators, use the firing device with the appropriate cables (follow instructions).
Once gas generators have been fired, observe a ventilation period of 10 minutes with the doors opened. Only then is it permitted to continue work inside the vehicle.
Wear protective goggles and protective gloves when handling a fired gas generator!
The burning of solid fuel will heat up the airbag unit - danger of burning hands!
Wash skin with water after contact with fired gas generators!