SAE Pursues Standard for Engine-Off Airbag Deactivation

June 24, 2014

Patrick Ponticel

The SAE recommended practice would provide for a minimum time or a motion-based metric for airbag systems to be active after ignition cutoff or loss of power.

SAE International is gauging interest in development of an SAE recommended practice addressing the relationship between engine status and airbag functionality. Keith Wilson, Technical Project Manager, SAE Global Ground Vehicle Standards, wrote in a letter to members of relevant committee members under the SAE Motor Vehicle Council: "If sufficient industry support exists, our intent is to develop an SAE recommended practice for a minimum time or a motion-based metric for airbag systems to be active after ignition cutoff or loss of power. OEMs and suppliers may be interested in developing a consensus-based industry standard to address this issue in lieu of Congress or NHTSA [U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration] coming up with a requirement." Development of a standard would take place within the SAE Inflatable Restraints Committee, which currently has about 25 members/liaisons including representatives from OEMs, suppliers, and NHTSA. Interested parties may contact SAE's Nikki Ameredes at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. . The next Inflatable Restraints Committee meeting is slated for Aug. 12 at SAE Automotive Headquarters in Troy, MI.