Warning over seatbelt units

The Imported Motor Vehicle Industry Association (VIA) has issued an alert to clarify the rules for the transportation of seatbelt assemblies containing pyrotechnic pre-tensioners.

It says because the units contain an explosive charge they are classified as class nine miscellaneous dangerous goods (DGs) with the UN classification number 3268.

VIA’s email to members advises the assemblies should not be shipped in pre-paid satchels, because these are normally transported by air and DGs are banned by law from carriage by airlines.

“Package all assemblies in robust containers ensuring you use a bubble-wrap, or similar, packaging material to protect the retractor in its container,” the alert adds.

“Complete a DGs declaration and use the correct identification on the exterior of the packaging.”

The alert recommends liaising with a courier company for guidance on the correct packaging, marking and completion of the DGs declaration.

It also advises businesses update their health and safety manuals by adding a standard operating procedure for handling the transportation of DGs.

VIA notes the same rules apply to sending airbags by courier and anything with a lithium-ion battery, such as cellphones, are also classified as DGs and are prohibited from carriage as air-cargo.

For more details, contact VIA on 0800-842-842, or email info@via.org.nz.