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Seat Belts
Posted by Chris Gilmour on October 21, 2008
Buckle Up!
Seat Belts Save Lives - But only If they’re in good condition! We have commissioned leading UK manufacturer, Securon to produce a range of VW specific seatbelts to replace and upgrade the often worn stock items. Safety first? Absolutely!
In an accident a seat belt becomes a life saver. It restrains the wearer and absorbs enormous energy levels. But wear & tear and abuse all cause the seat belt to deteriorate. It can be caught in doors, trapped under or behind seats, chewed by dogs (or kids!) and misused in many ways.
Resulting holes, cuts, fraying or fluffing all weaken the belt - by up to 70% - or obstruct its operation, or cause slackness. The impact in an accident reduces the effectiveness of the belt because it permanently elongates the webbing - by as much as 13%. Following this elongation, the wearer's body would take the full shock load in subsequent accidents - approximately equal to the weight of a three tonne elephant against the belt!
Other parts of the belts become stressed too. They are not always visible.
In all cases the complete seat belt must be replaced - but never with a second-hand one. It could mean the difference between life and death.
Finding out that your seat belt doesn’t protect you when you have an accident is too late!
It’s common sense if you think about it, Everyone knows regular checks are vital on the safety-related parts of a vehicle like brakes and tyres - and seat belts are no different!
Ensure maximum protection in an accident with this detailed check list, devised by vehicle safety specialists at RoSPA, and our team at Securon, If you see any of these. It’s time to treat yourself to some new belts!
Look For These Danger Signs
Webbing
Check webbing and stitching for deterioration, especially:
• Nicks, cuts or holes
• Frayed of fluffed webbing
• Frayed, insecure, incomplete or repaired stitching
Buckle and Connection to the Vehicle
Check buckle is not damaged. Test security and operation by connecting the buckle and tongue, then try to pull apart; while pulling, press button to ensure release. Check for weakness in connection to vehicle. Waggle flexible stalks and listen for clicking sounds which indicate broken cable strands.
Retractor
With seat belt fastened, and unoccupied seat in rearmost position, all webbing must retract fully.
Locking
The belt should lock under hard braking at 5mph and when the webbing is snatched from the retractor.
Fittings and Adjusters
Check condition, especially for fractures and deterioration, and operation.
Markings
Look for 'E' (Economic Commission for Europe) or 'BSI' (British Standards Institute) approval symbols.
And most importantly of all.. Make sure you wear it! It’s amazing how many people still don’t bother to wear their seat belt, Don’t risk it. Buckle Up!
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