Available Now: 2023 Schedule of Hazmat & RCRA Training
Search

Seatbelt Recall Impacts 200,000 Hyundai Vehicles

Posted on 6/3/2022 by Roger Marks

A major car maker is recalling more than 200,000 vehicles due to faulty seatbelt pretensioners. During a crash, the seatbelt pretensioner may “deploy abnormally,” causing metal fragments to injure the driver or passengers.

To ensure safe transportation of the recalled parts, car dealerships and service shops must recognize that seatbelt pretensioners are regulated as hazardous materials in transportation.  
NHTSA Recall Notice (May 19, 2022) 

Why Are Seatbelts Hazmat?

A seatbelt pretensioner activates when it senses the vehicle decelerate abruptly. An explosive or electrical charge moves a piston, which spins a spool that holds the seatbelt fabric. This tightens the belt to limit movement during an accident.

We see how the seatbelt mechanism works in this video clip, courtesy of the Slo-Mo Guys YouTube channel. Red paint was added for visual effect.

 
 

Typically, safety devices (including seatbelt pretensioners) may be shipped as Class 9 hazardous materials under UN 3268 when they meet specific design and testing standards (49 CFR 173.166(b)(1)). 

The phrase “explosive safety device” may sound like an oxymoron, but hazardous materials play a crucial role in protecting drivers and passengers. Like seatbelt pretensioners, car airbags utilize an explosive charge to deploy instantly.

Vehicles Affected by the Recall

The recall of seatbelt pretensioners impacts about 1% of the following vehicles:

  • Hyundai Accent (2019—2022 model years)
  • Elantra (2021—2023), and
  • Elantra HEV (2021—2022)

To fix the defect, the automaker will secure the device’s micro gas generator and delivery system to control the deployment of gas during an accident.

This is not the first time that seatbelt pretensioners have been subject to recall action.  In 2018, Ford recalled about two million F-150 trucks following reports of smoking seatbelt pretensioners.

Seatbelt Recall Impacts 200,000 Hyundai Vehicles

Hazmat Auto Parts Shipper Training

Learn the requirements that apply to safety devices like seatbelt pretensioners and airbag modules/inflators, both regulated as hazardous materials when shipped by ground, air, or vessel. The Shipping Automotive Airbags and Other Safety Devices online course is available when you want, where you want.

Access training from any internet connection, stop and start as needed to fit your schedule, and receive a trusted hazmat training Certificate from Lion Technology when you complete the course.

Find a Post

Compliance Archives

Lion - Quotes

Lion does a great job summarizing and communicating complicated EH&S-related regulations.

Michele Irmen

Sr. Environmental Engineer

Excellent job. Made what is very dry material interesting. Thoroughly explained all topics in easy-to-understand terms.

David Hertvik

Vice President

My experience with Lion training, both online and in the classroom, is that they are far better organized and provide a better sequential explanation of the material.

Robert Roose

Manager, Dangerous Goods Transportation

I tried other environmental training providers, but they were all sub-standard compared to Lion. I will not stray from Lion again!

Sara Sills

Environmental Specialist

I think LION does an excellent job of any training they do. Materials provided are very useful to my day-to-day work activities.

Pamela Embody

EHS Specialist

My experience with Lion classes has always been good. Lion Technology always covers the EPA requirements I must follow.

Steven Erlandson

Environmental Coordinator

Very good. I have always appreciated the way Lion Tech develops, presents and provides training and materials.

John Troy

Environmental Specialist

The instructor made the class enjoyable. He presented in a very knowledgeable, personable manner. Best class I've ever attended. Will take one again.

John Nekoloff

Environmental Compliance Manager

This course went above my expectations from the moment I walked in the door. The instructor led us through two days packed with useful compliance information.

Rachel Stewart

Environmental Manager

The instructor was very knowledgeable and provided pertinent information above and beyond the questions that were asked.

Johnny Barton

Logistics Coordinator

Download Our Latest Whitepaper

A guide to developing standard operating procedures, or SOPs, that help you select, manage, and audit your hazmat agents and contractors.

Latest Whitepaper

By submitting your phone number, you agree to receive recurring marketing and training text messages. Consent to receive text messages is not required for any purchases. Text STOP at any time to cancel. Message and data rates may apply. View our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy.