Airbag removal

[Pondrew]

I put it in here as it's a generic question....

Am I right in thinking that if I disconnect my battery, I can remove airbags without any danger of them firing?
I soon need to remove all the airbags from a car but it scares me shiteless at the thought of one 'going off' by accident when fecking around with it.

[enuff_zed]

You are correct.

But do you believe me?

[DMike]

Hi,

Short version:
Disconnect battery, wait for a minute and don’t do anything stupid with them and you’ll be ok.

Long version, quote from the TIS safety precautions document TIS 72 00:
”
Work on components of the airbag system should only ever be carried out with the battery disconnected, the negative terminal post covered and the plug connection of the cable leading to the gas generator disconnected. If only the battery is disconnected, the following prescribed waiting period must be observed without fail:
30 min. for vehicles up to 9/93
1 min. for vehicles from 9/93 onward

In the event of breaks in work, a component with a gas generator that has been removed must be secured against access by other persons.
Individual components must never be repaired. Instead, always replace them.
Do not treat airbag system components with cleaning agents or grease.
Components of the airbag system must not be exposed to temperatures in excess of 75 °C.
Airbag system components, including electronic diagnostic components, which have been dropped from heights in excess of 0.5 m must not be reinstalled in the vehicles.
Do not remove components of the airbag system from the original packaging until immediately before they are to be installed in the vehicle.
Before installing, subject components such as housing, connector pins ,etc. of the airbag system (including diagnosis electronics) to a visual inspection for damage and replace if necessary.
Airbag system components may only be electrically tested while they are installed and only with the BMW ISTA.
Danger of injury: The airbag module may only be set down with the airbag itself facing upwards. Otherwise the alternator will be thrown upwards if it is ignited.
Do not point the ignition squib of a gas generator at other persons.
Components with gas generators must not be fired while they are removed. They must be disposed of by special disposal companies or returned to BMW in the packaging of the new components.
When carrying out straightening and welding work with an electric welder:
Disconnect battery
Cover negative terminal (post)
Avoid all contact with the skin when removing a fired airbag module ‐ wear gloves. Wash with water after contact with the skin.
”

[Pondrew]

But do you believe me?

Of course I do, Martin. You are a very trustworthy person (gleaned from a source I don't know if I can trust).

[Pondrew]

Short version:
Disconnect battery, wait for a minute and don’t do anything stupid with them and you’ll be ok.

Cheers!

The long version is a bit too much of an H&S quote for me.