SIR - Handling Undeployed Inflator Modules
89olds12SUBJECT DEALER HANDLING/RETURN OF SUPPLEMENTAL INFLATABLE
RESTRAINTS (SIR) INFLATOR MODULES
MODELS/YEARS 1989-90 EIGHTY-EIGHT AND NINETY-EIGHT MODELS AND 1990
TORONADO AND TROFEO MODELS
NUMBER: 90-I-18
CORP.REF.NO: 919003
DATE: December 1989
SECTION: 9J
This bulletin is being issued because the procedures for handling undeployed Supplemental Inflatable Restraint (SIR) inflator modules have been changed.
The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and most state governments regulate the transportation of uninstalled Supplemental Inflatable Restraint (SIR) inflator modules. While new, uninstalled service parts can be shipped as a flammable solid under a special exemption, as detailed in Section 9J of the service manual, undeployed inflator modules removed from a vehicle do not currently qualify under this exemption.
Until further notice, undeployed inflator modules removed from the above noted 1989 and 1990 model year vehicles are to be retained. Undeployed inflator modules must not be disposed of due to hazards that could result from unwanted deployment if the inflator is mishandled. Additionally, undeployed inflators contain sodium azide, a potentially hazardous substance which is hermetically sealed in a metal container in the inflator. During deployment the sodium azide undergoes a chemical reaction which converts it to harmless nitrogen gas. Deployed inflator modules (i.e., those deployed during an accident) can be disposed of through normal service part disposal procedures.
It is anticipated that further directions will be provided within the next three months so that the undeployed inflator modules can either be returned in accordance with applicable regulations, or safely deployed at the dealership.