20.11.2015

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

L 304/1

---

Only the original UN/ECE texts have legal effect under international public law. The status and date of entry into force of this Regulation should be checked in the latest version of the UN/ECE status document TRANS/WP.29/343, available at:

http://www.unece.org/trans/main/wp29/wp29wgs/wp29gen/wp29fdocstts.html

Regulation No 16 of the Economic Commission for Europe of the United Nations (UNECE) — Uniform provisions concerning the approval of:

I.	Safety-belts, restraint systems, child restraint systems and ISOFIX child restraint systems for occupants of power-driven vehicles

II.	Vehicles equipped with safety-belts, safety-belt reminders, restraint systems, child restraint systems, ISOFIX child restraint systems and i-Size child restraint systems [2015/2059]

Incorporating all valid text up to:

Supplement 5 to the 06 series of amendments — Date of entry into force: 10 June 2014

CONTENTS

REGULATION

1.

Scope

2.

Definitions

3.

Application for approval

4.

Markings

5.

Approval

6.

Specifications

7.

Tests

8.

Requirements concerning the installation in the vehicle

9.

Conformity of production

10.

Penalties for non-conformity of production

11.

Modifications and extension of approval of the vehicle type or safety-belt or restraint system type

12.

Production definitively discontinued

13.

Instructions

14.

Names and addresses of Technical Services responsible for conducting approval tests, and of Type Approval Authorities

15.

Transitional provisions

ANNEXES

1A

Communication concerning the approval or extension or refusal or withdrawal of approval or production definitively discontinued of a vehicle type with regard to safety-belt pursuant to Regulation No 16

1B

Communication concerning the approval or extension or refusal or withdrawal of approval or production definitively discontinued of a type of safety-belt or restraint system for adult occupants of power-driven vehicles pursuant to Regulation No 16

2

Arrangements of the approval marks

3

Diagram of an apparatus to test durability of retractor mechanism

4

Diagram of an apparatus to test locking of emergency locking retractors

5

Diagram of an apparatus for dust-resistance test

6

Description of trolley, seat, anchorages and stopping device

7

Description of manikin

8

Description of curve of trolley’s deceleration or acceleration as a function of time

9

Instructions

10

Dual buckle test

11

Abrasion and micro-slip test

12

Corrosion test

13

Order of tests

14

Control of conformity of production

15

Procedure for determining the ‘H’ point and the actual torso angle for seating positions in motor vehicles

16

Safety-belt installation showing the belt types and retractor types

17

Requirements for the installation of safety-belts and restraint systems for adult occupants of power-driven vehicles on forward facing seats, for the installation of ISOFIX child restraint systems and i-Size child restraint systems

18

Safety-belt reminder tests

1.   SCOPE

This Regulation applies to:

1.1.	Vehicles of category M, N, O, L2, L4, L5, L6, L7 and T (1), with regard to the installation of safety-belts and restraint systems which are intended for separate use, i.e. as individual fittings, by persons of adult build occupying forward-facing, rearward-facing or side-facing seats;

1.2.	Safety-belts and restraint systems which are intended for separate use, i.e. as individual fittings, by persons of adult build occupying forward-facing, rearward-facing or side-facing seats, and are designed for installation in vehicles of category M, N, O, L2, L4, L5, L6, L7 and T1;

1.3.	Vehicles of category M1 and N1 1 with regard to the installation of child restraint systems, ISOFIX child restraint systems and i-Size child restraint systems;

1.4.	Vehicles of categories M1 with regard to safety belt reminder (2).

1.5.	At the request of the manufacturer, it also applies to the installation of child restraint systems and ISOFIX child restraint systems designated for installation in vehicles of categories M2 and M3 1.

1.6.	At the request of the manufacturer, it also applies to safety-belts designated for installation on side-facing seats in vehicles of category M3 (Class II, III and B1).

1.7.	At the request of the manufacturer, it also applies to installing i-Size child restraint systems, in case i-Size seating positions are defined by the vehicle manufacturer.

2.   DEFINITIONS

2.1.   Safety-belt (seat-belt, belt)

An arrangement of straps with a securing buckle, adjusting devices and attachments which is capable of being anchored to the interior of a power-driven vehicle and is designed to diminish the risk of injury to its wearer, in the event of collision or of abrupt deceleration of the vehicle, by limiting the mobility of the wearer's body. Such an arrangement is generally referred to as a ‘belt assembly’, which term also embraces any device for absorbing energy or for retracting the belt.

The arrangement can be tested and approved as a safety-belt arrangement or as a restraint system.

2.1.1.   Lap belt

A two-point belt which passes across the front of the wearer's pelvic region.

2.1.2.   Diagonal belt

A belt which passes diagonally across the front of the chest from the hip to the opposite shoulder.

2.1.3.   Three-point belt

A belt which is essentially a combination of a lap strap and a diagonal strap.

2.1.4.   S-type belt

A belt arrangement other than a three-point belt or a lap belt.

2.1.5.   Harness belt

A S-type belt arrangement comprising a lap belt and shoulder straps; a harness belt may be provided with an additional crotch strap assembly.

2.2.   Belt type

Belts of different ‘types’ are belts differing substantially from one another; the differences may relate in particular to:

2.2.1.

Rigid parts (buckle, attachments, retractor, etc.);

2.2.2.

The material, weave, dimensions and colour of the straps; or

2.2.3.

The geometry of the belt assembly.

2.3.   Strap

A flexible component designed to hold the body and to transmit stresses to the belt anchorages.

2.4.   Buckle

A quick-release device enabling the wearer to be held by the belt. The buckle may incorporate the adjusting device, except in the case of a harness belt buckle.

2.5.   Belt adjusting device

A device enabling the belt to be adjusted according to the requirements of the individual wearer and to the position of the seat. The adjusting device may be part of the buckle, or a retractor, or any other part of the safety-belt.

2.6.   Pre-loading device

An additional or integrated device which tightens the seat-belt webbing in order to reduce the slack of the belt during a crash sequence.

2.7.   ‘Reference zone’ means the space between two vertical longitudinal planes, 400 mm apart and symmetrical with respect to the H-point, and defined by rotation from vertical to horizontal of the head-form apparatus, described in Regulation No 21 Annex 1. The apparatus shall be positioned as described in that annex to Regulation No 21 and set to the maximum length of 840 mm.

2.8.   ‘Airbag assembly’ means a device installed to supplement safety-belts and restraint systems in power-driven vehicles, i.e. system which, in the event of a severe impact affecting the vehicle automatically deploys a flexible structure intended to limit, by compression of the gas contained within it, the gravity of the contacts of one or more parts of the body of an occupant of the vehicle with the interior of the passenger compartment.

2.9.   ‘Passenger airbag’ means an airbag assembly intended to protect occupant(s) in seats other than the driver's in the event of a frontal collision.

2.10.   ‘Child restraint’ means a safety device as defined in Regulation No 44 or Regulation No 129.

2.11.   ‘Rearward-facing’ means facing in the direction opposite to the normal direction of travel of the vehicle.

2.12.   Attachments

Parts of the belt assembly including the necessary securing components, which enable it to be attached to the belt anchorages.

2.13.   Energy absorber

Device designed to disperse energy independently of or jointly with the strap and forming part of a belt assembly.

2.14.   Retractor

Device to accommodate part or the whole of the strap of a safety-belt.

2.14.1.   Non-locking retractor (type 1)

A retractor from which the strap is extracted to its full length by a small external force and which provides no adjustment for the length of the extracted strap.

2.14.2.   Manually unlocking retractor (type 2)

A retractor requiring the manual operation of a device by the user to unlock the retractor in order to obtain the desired strap extraction and which locks automatically when the said operation ceases.

2.14.3.   Automatically locking retractor (type 3)

A retractor allowing extraction of the strap to the desired length and which, when the buckle is fastened, automatically adjusts the strap to the wearer. Further extraction of the strap is prevented without voluntary intervention by the wearer.

2.14.4.   Emergency locking retractor (type 4)

A retractor which during normal driving conditions does not restrict the freedom of movement by the wearer of the safety-belt. Such a device has length adjusting components which automatically adjust the strap to the wearer and a locking mechanism actuated in an emergency by:

2.14.4.1.

Deceleration of the vehicle (single sensitivity),

2.14.4.2.

A combination of deceleration of the vehicle, movement of the webbing or any other automatic means (multiple sensitivity).

2.14.5.   Emergency locking retractor with higher response threshold (type 4N)

A retractor of the type defined in paragraph 2.14.4, but having special properties as regards its use in vehicles of categories M2, M3, N1, N2 and N3  (3).

2.14.6.   Belt adjustment device for height

A device enabling the position in height of the upper pillar loop of a belt to be adjusted according to the requirements of the individual wearer and the position of the seat. Such a device may be considered as a part of the belt or a part of the anchorage of the belt.

2.15.   Belt anchorages

Parts of the vehicles structure or seat structure or any other part of the vehicle to which the safety-belt assemblies are to be secured.

2.16.   Vehicle type as regards safety-belts and restraint systems

Category of power-driven vehicles which do not differ in such essential respects as the dimensions, lines and materials of components of the vehicle structure or seat structure or any other part of the vehicle to which the safety-belts and the restraint systems are attached.

2.17.   Restraint system

A system for a specific vehicle type or a type defined by the vehicle manufacturer and agreed by the Technical Service consisting of a seat and a belt fixed to the vehicle by appropriate means and consisting additionally of all elements which are provided to diminish the risk of injury to the wearer, in the event of an abrupt vehicle deceleration, by limiting the mobility of the wearer's body.

2.18.   Seat

A structure which may or may not be integral with the vehicle structure complete with trim, intended to seat one adult person. The term covers both an individual seat or part of a bench seat intended to seat one person.

2.18.1.

‘A front passenger seat’ means any seat where the ‘foremost H-point’ of the seat in question is in or in front of the vertical transverse plane through the driver's R-point.

2.18.2.

‘Forward-facing seat’ means a seat which can be used while the vehicle is in motion and which faces towards the front of the vehicle in such a manner that the vertical plane of symmetry of the seat forms an angle of less than +10° or – 10° with the vertical plane of symmetry of the vehicle.

2.18.3.

‘Rearward-facing seat’ means a seat which can be used while the vehicle is in motion and which faces towards the rear of the vehicle in such a manner that the vertical plane of symmetry of the seat forms an angle of less than +10° or – 10° with the vertical plane of symmetry of the vehicle.

2.18.4.

‘Side-facing seat’ means a seat which can be used while the vehicle is in motion and which faces towards the side of the vehicle in such a manner that the vertical plane of symmetry of the seat forms an angle of 90° (± 10°) with the vertical plane of symmetry of the vehicle.

2.19.   Group of seats

Either a bench-type seat or seats which are separate but side by side (i.e. fixed so that front seat anchorages of one of these seats are in line with the front or the rear anchorages of the other or between the anchorages of the other seat) and accommodate one or more seated adult persons.

2.20.   Bench seat

A structure complete with trim, intended to seat more than one adult person.

2.21.   Adjustment system of the seat

The complete device by which the seat or its parts can be adjusted to a position suited to the morphology of the seated occupant; this device may, in particular, permit of:

2.21.1.

Longitudinal displacement;

2.21.2.

Vertical displacement;

2.21.3.

Angular displacement.

2.22.   Seat anchorage

The system by which the seat assembly is secured to the vehicle structure, including the affected parts of the vehicle structure.

2.23.   Seat type

A category of seats which do not differ in such essential respects as:

2.23.1.

The shape, dimensions and materials of the seat structure;

2.23.2.

The types and dimensions of the seat lock adjustment and locking systems;

2.23.3.

The type and dimensions of the belt anchorage on the seat, of the seat anchorage and of the affected parts of the vehicle structure.

2.24.   Displacement system of the seat

A device enabling the seat or one of its parts to be displaced angularly or longitudinally, without a fixed intermediate position (to facilitate access by passengers).

2.25.   Locking system of the seat

A device ensuring that the seat and its parts are maintained in any position of use.

2.26.   Enclosed buckle-release button

A buckle-release button such that it shall not be possible to release the buckle using a sphere having a diameter of 40 mm.

2.27.   Non-enclosed buckle-release button

A buckle-release button such that it shall be possible to release the buckle using a sphere having a diameter of 40 mm.

2.28.   Tension-reducing device

A device which is incorporated in the retractor and reduces the tension of the strap automatically when the safety-belt is fastened. When it is released, such a device switches off automatically.

2.29.   ‘ISOFIX’ is a system for the connection of child restraint systems to vehicles which has two vehicle rigid anchorages, two corresponding rigid attachments on the child restraint system, and a mean to limit the pitch rotation of the child restraint system.

2.30.   ‘ISOFIX child restraint system’ means a child restraint system, fulfilling the requirements of Regulation No 44 or Regulation No 129, which has to be attached to an ISOFIX anchorages system, fulfilling the requirements of Regulation No 14.

2.31.   ‘ISOFIX position’ means a system which allows installing:

(a)	Either a universal ISOFIX forward facing child restraint system as defined in Regulation No 44,

(b)	Or a semi-universal ISOFIX forward facing child restraint system as defined in Regulation No 44,

(c)	Or a semi-universal ISOFIX rearward facing child restraint system as defined in Regulation No 44,

(d)	Or a semi-universal ISOFIX lateral facing position child restraint system as defined in Regulation No 44,

(e)	Or a specific vehicle ISOFIX child restraint system as defined in Regulation No 44,

(f)	Or an i-Size child restraint system as defined in Regulation No 129,

(g)	Or a specific vehicle ISOFIX child restraint system as defined in Regulation No 129.

2.32.   ‘ISOFIX anchorages system’ means a system made up of two ISOFIX low anchorages, fulfilling the requirements of Regulation No 14, and which is designed for attaching an ISOFIX child restraint system in conjunction with an anti-rotation device.

2.33.   ‘ISOFIX low anchorage’ means one 6 mm diameter rigid round horizontal bar, extending from vehicle or seat structure to accept and restrain an ISOFIX child restraint system with ISOFIX attachments.

2.34.   ‘Anti-rotation device’:

(a)	An anti-rotation device for an ISOFIX universal child restraint system consists of the ISOFIX top-tether,

(b)	An anti-rotation device for an ISOFIX semi-universal child restraint system consists of a top tether, the vehicle dashboard or a support leg intended to limit the rotation of the restraint during a frontal impact,

(c)	An anti-rotation device for an i-Size child restraint system consists of either a top tether or a support leg, which is intended to limit the rotation of the restraint during a frontal impact,

(d)	For ISOFIX, i-Size, universal and semi-universal, child restraint systems the vehicle seat itself does not constitute an anti-rotation device.

2.35.   ‘ISOFIX top tether anchorage’ means a feature, fulfilling the requirements of Regulation No 14, such as a bar, located in a defined zone, designed to accept an ISOFIX top tether strap connector and transfer its restraint force to the vehicle structure.

2.36.   A ‘guidance device’ is intended to help the person installing the ISOFIX child restraint system by physically guiding the ISOFIX attachments on the ISOFIX child restraint into correct alignment with the ISOFIX low anchorages to facilitate engagement.

2.37.   ‘ISOFIX marking fixture’ means something that informs someone wishing to install an ISOFIX child restraint system of the ISOFIX positions in the vehicle and the position of each corresponding ISOFIX anchorages system.

2.38.   ‘Child restraint fixture’ (CRF) means a fixture according to one out of the eight ISOFIX size classes defined in paragraph 4 of Annex 17 — Appendix 2 to this Regulation, and particularly whose dimensions are given from Figure 1 to Figure 7 in the previous mentioned paragraph 4. Those child restraint fixtures (CRF) are used, in this Regulation, to check what are the ISOFIX child restraint systems size classes which can be accommodated on the vehicle ISOFIX positions. Also one of the CRF, the so-called ISO/F2 (B), which is described in Figure 2 of the previous mentioned paragraph 4, is used in Regulation No 14 to check the location and the possibility of access to any ISOFIX anchorages system.

2.39.   ‘i-Size support leg installation assessment volume’ means a volume, which ensures the dimensional and geometrical compatibility between the support leg of an i-Size child restraint system and an i-Size seating position of a vehicle.

2.40.   ‘i-Size seating position’ means a seating position, if defined by the vehicle manufacturer, which is designed to accommodate an i-Size child restraint system, as defined in Regulation No 129, and fulfils the requirements defined in this Regulation.

2.41.   ‘Safety-belt reminder’, means a system dedicated to alert the driver when he/she does not use the safety-belt. The system is constituted by a detection of an unfastened safety-belt and by two levels of driver's alert: a first level warning and a second level warning.

2.42.   ‘Visual warning’ means a warning by visual signal (lighting, blinking or visual display of symbol or message).

2.43.   ‘Audible warning’ means a warning by sound signal.

2.44.   ‘First level warning’ means a visual warning activated when the ignition switch is engaged (engine running or not) and the driver's safety-belt is not fastened. An audible warning can be added as an option.

2.45.   ‘Second level warning’ means a visual and audible warning activated when a driver operates a vehicle without fastening the safety-belt.

2.46.   ‘Safety-belt is not fastened’ means, at the option of the manufacturer, either the driver safety-belt buckle is not engaged or the webbing length pulled out of the retractor is 100 mm or less.

2.47.   ‘Vehicle is in normal operation’ means that vehicle is in forward motion at the speed greater than 10 km/h.

3.   APPLICATION FOR APPROVAL

3.1.   Vehicle type

3.1.1.

The application for approval of a vehicle type with regard to the installation of its safety-belts and restraint systems shall be submitted by the vehicle manufacturer or by his duly accredited representative.

3.1.2.

It shall be accompanied by the under mentioned documents in triplicate and the following particulars: 3.1.2.1. Drawings of the general vehicle structure on an appropriate scale, showing the positions of the safety-belts, and detailed drawings of the safety-belts and of the points to which they are attached; 3.1.2.2. A specification of the materials used which may affect the strength of the safety-belts; 3.1.2.3. A technical description of the safety-belts; 3.1.2.4. In the case of safety-belts affixed to the seat structure; 3.1.2.5. Detailed description of the vehicle type with regard to the design of the seats, of the seat anchorages and their adjustment and locking systems; 3.1.2.6. Drawings, on an appropriate scale and in sufficient detail, of the seats, of their anchorages to the vehicle, and of their adjustment and locking systems;

3.1.3.

At the opinion of the manufacturer, a vehicle representative of the vehicle type to be approved or the parts of the vehicle considered essential for the safety-belt tests by the Technical Service conducting approval tests shall be submitted to the Service.

3.2.   Safety-belt type

3.2.1.

The application for approval of a type of safety-belt shall be submitted by the holder of the trade mark or by his duly accredited representative. In the case of restraint systems, the application for approval of a type of restraint system shall be submitted by the holder of the trade mark or by his representative or by the manufacturer of the vehicle in which it is to be installed or by his representative.

3.2.2.

It shall be accompanied by: 3.2.2.1. A technical description of the belt type, specifying the straps and rigid parts used and accompanied by drawings of the parts making up the belt; the drawings shall show the position intended for the approval number and the additional symbol(s) in relation to the circle of the approval mark. The description shall mention the colour of the model submitted for approval, and specify the vehicle type(s) for which this belt type is intended. In the case of retractors, installation instructions for the sensing device shall be provided; and for pre-loading devices or systems a full technical description of the construction and function including the sensing, if any, describing the method of activation and any necessary method to avoid inadvertent activation shall be provided. In the case of a restraint system the description shall include: drawings of the vehicle structure and of the seat structure, adjustment system and attachments on an appropriate scale showing the sites of the seat anchorages and belt anchorages and reinforcements in sufficient detail; together with a specification of the materials used which may affect the strength of the seat anchorages and belt anchorages; and a technical description of the seat anchorages and the belts anchorages. If the belt is designed to be fixed to the vehicle structure through a belt adjustment device for height, the technical description shall specify whether or not this device is considered as a part of the belt; 3.2.2.2. Six samples of the belt type, one of which is for reference purposes; 3.2.2.3. A 10-metre length of each type of strap used in the type of belt; 3.2.2.4. The Technical Service conducting the type-approval tests shall be entitled to request further samples.

3.2.3.

In the case of restraint systems, two samples which may include two of the samples of belts required under paragraphs 3.2.2.2 and 3.2.2.3 above at the option of the manufacturer, either a vehicle representative of the vehicle type to be approved, or the part or parts of the vehicle considered essential by the Technical Service conducting approval tests for testing the restraint system shall be submitted to the Service.

4.   MARKINGS

The samples of a belt type or type of restraint system submitted for approval in conformity with the provisions of paragraphs 3.2.2.2, 3.2.2.3 and 3.2.2.4 above shall be clearly and indelibly marked with the manufacturer's name, initials or trade name or mark.

5.   APPROVAL

5.1.   A certificate conforming to the model specified in paragraph 5.1.1 or 5.1.2 below shall be attached to the type approval certificate:

5.1.1.

Annex 1A for applications referred to in paragraph 3.1;

5.1.2.

Annex 1B for applications referred to in paragraph 3.2;

5.2.   Vehicle type

5.2.1.

If the vehicle submitted for approval pursuant this Regulation meets the requirements of paragraph 8 below, and of Annexes 15 and 16 to this Regulation, approval of that vehicle type shall be granted.

5.2.2.

An approval number shall be assigned to each type approved. Its first two digits (at present 06 corresponding to the 06 series of amendments) shall indicate the series of amendments incorporating the most recent major technical amendments made to the Regulation at the time of issue of the approval. The same Contracting Party shall not assign the same number to another vehicle type as defined in paragraph 2.16 above.

5.2.3.

Notice of approval or of extension or refusal or withdrawal of approval or production definitively discontinued of a vehicle type pursuant to this Regulation shall be communicated to the Parties to the 1958 Agreement which apply this Regulation by means of a form conforming to the model in Annex 1A to this Regulation.

5.2.4.

There shall be affixed, conspicuously and in a readily accessible place specified on the approval form, to every vehicle conforming to a vehicle type approved under this Regulation an international approval mark consisting of: 5.2.4.1. A circle surrounding the letter ‘E’ followed by the distinguishing number of the country which has granted approval (4). 5.2.4.2. The number of this Regulation, followed by the letter ‘R’, a dash and the approval number to the right of the circle prescribed in paragraph 5.2.4.1 above.

5.2.5.

If the vehicle conforms to a vehicle type approved, under one or more other Regulations annexed to the Agreement, in the country which has granted approval under this Regulation, the symbol prescribed in paragraph 5.2.4.1 need not be repeated; in such a case the additional numbers and symbols of all the Regulations under which approval has been granted in the country which has granted approval under this Regulation shall be placed in vertical columns to the right of the symbol prescribed in paragraph 5.2.4.1 above.

5.2.6.

The approval mark shall be clearly legible and be indelible.

5.2.7.

The approval mark shall be placed close to or on the vehicle data plate affixed by the manufacturer.

5.3.   Safety-belt type

5.3.1.

If the samples of a type of belt which are submitted in conformity with the provisions of paragraph 3.2 above meet the requirements of paragraphs 4, 5.3 and 6 of this Regulation, approval shall be granted.

5.3.2.

An approval number shall be assigned to each type approved. Its first two digits (at present 06 corresponding to the 06 series of amendments) shall indicate the series of amendments incorporating the most recent major technical amendments made to the Regulation at the time of issue of the approval. The same Contracting Party may not assign the same number to another type of belt or restraint system.

5.3.3.

Notice of approval or of extension or refusal of approval of a type of belt or restraint system, pursuant to this Regulation, shall be communicated to the Contracting Parties to the 1958 Agreement which apply this Regulation by means of a form conforming to the model in Annex 1B to this Regulation.

5.3.4.

In addition to the marks prescribed in paragraph 4 above, the following particulars shall be affixed in a suitable space to every belt conforming to a type approved under this Regulation: 5.3.4.1. An international approval mark consisting of: 5.3.4.1.1. A circle surrounding the letter ‘E’ followed by the distinguishing number of the country which has granted approval (5). 5.3.4.1.2. An approval number; 5.3.4.2. The following additional symbol(s): 5.3.4.2.1. The letter ‘A’ for a three-point belt, the letter ‘B’ for a lap belt and the letter ‘S’ for special-type belts. 5.3.4.2.2. The symbols referred to in paragraph 5.3.4.2.1 above shall be supplemented by the following additional markings: 5.3.4.2.2.1. The letter ‘e’ for a belt with an energy absorption device; 5.3.4.2.2.2. The letter ‘r’ for a belt incorporating a retractor followed by the symbol (1, 2, 3, 4 or 4N) of the retractor used, in accordance with paragraph 2.14 of this Regulation, and the letter ‘m’ if the retractor used is an emergency locking retractor with multiple sensitivity; 5.3.4.2.2.3. The letter ‘p’ in the case of safety-belts with a pre-loading device; 5.3.4.2.2.4. The letter ‘t’ in the case of a safety-belt with a retractor incorporating a tension-reducing device; 5.3.4.2.2.5. Belts fitted with a type 4N retractor shall also bear a symbol consisting of a rectangle with a vehicle of category M1 crossed out, indicating that the use of this type of retractor is prohibited in vehicles of that category. 5.3.4.2.2.6. If the safety-belt is approved following the provisions of paragraph 6.4.1.3.3 of this Regulation, it shall be marked with the word ‘AIRBAG’ in a rectangle. 5.3.4.2.3. The symbol referred to in paragraph 5.3.4.2.1 above shall be preceded by the letter ‘Z’ when the safety-belt is part of a restraint system.

5.3.5.

Annex 2, paragraph 2 to this Regulation gives examples of arrangements of the approval mark.

5.3.6.

The particulars referred to in paragraph 5.3.4 above shall be clearly legible and be indelible, and may be permanently affixed either by means of a label or by direct marking. The label or marking shall be resistant to wear.

5.3.7.

The labels referred to in paragraph 5.3.6 above may be issued either by the Type Approval Authority which has granted the approval or, subject to that Authority's authorisation, by the manufacturer.

6.   SPECIFICATIONS

6.1.   General specifications

6.1.1.   Each sample submitted in conformity with paragraphs 3.2.2.2, 3.2.2.3 and 3.2.2.4 above shall meet the specifications set forth in paragraph 6 of this Regulation.

6.1.2.   The belt or the restraint system shall be so designed and constructed that, when correctly installed and properly used by an occupant, its satisfactory operation is assured and it reduces the risk of bodily injury in the event of an accident.

6.1.3.   The straps of the belt shall not be liable to assume a dangerous configuration.

6.1.4.   The use of materials with properties of polyamide 6 as regards water retention is prohibited in all mechanical parts for which such a phenomenon is likely to have an adverse effect on their operation.

6.2.   Rigid parts

6.2.1.   General

6.2.1.1.   The rigid parts of the safety-belt, such as buckles, adjusting devices, attachments and the like, shall not have sharp edges liable to cause wear or breakage of the straps by chafing.

6.2.1.2.   All parts of the belt assembly liable to be affected by corrosion shall be suitably protected against it. After undergoing the corrosion test prescribed in paragraph 7.2 below, neither signs of deterioration likely to impair the proper functioning of the device nor any significant corrosion shall be visible to the unaided eye of a qualified observer.

6.2.1.3.   Rigid parts intended to absorb energy or to be subjected to or to transmit a load shall not be fragile.

6.2.1.4.   The rigid items and parts made of plastics of a safety-belt shall be so located and installed that they are not liable, during every day use of a power-driven vehicle, to become trapped under a moveable seat or in a door of that vehicle. If any of these items and parts do not comply with the above conditions, they shall be subjected to the cold impact test specified in paragraph 7.5.4 below. After the test, if any visible cracks are present in any plastic cover or retainer of rigid item, the complete plastic part shall then be removed and the remaining assembly shall then be assessed against its continued security. If the remaining assembly is still secure, or no visible cracks are present, it will then be further assessed against the test requirements specified in paragraphs 6.2.2, 6.2.3 and 6.4 below.

6.2.2.   Buckle

6.2.2.1.   The buckle shall be so designed as to preclude any possibility of incorrect use. This means, inter alia, that it shall not be possible for the buckle to be left in a partially-closed condition. The procedure for opening the buckle shall be evident. The parts of the buckle likely to contact the body of the wearer shall present a section of not less than 20 cm2 and at least 46 mm in width, measured in a plane situated at a maximal distance of 2,5 mm from the contact surface. In the case of harness belt buckles, the latter requirement shall be regarded as satisfied if the contact area of the buckle with the wearer's body is comprised between 20 and 40 cm2.

6.2.2.2.   The buckle, even when not under tension, shall remain closed whatever the position of the vehicle. It shall not be possible to release the buckle inadvertently, accidentally or with a force of less than 1 daN. The buckle shall be easy to use and to grasp; when it is not under tension and when under the tension specified in paragraph 7.8.2 below, it shall be capable of being released by the wearer with a single simple movement of one hand in one direction; in addition, in the case of belt assemblies intended to be used for the front outboard seats, except in these harness belts, it shall also be capable of being engaged by the wearer with a simple movement of one hand in one direction. The buckle shall be released by pressing either a button or a similar device. The surface to which this pressure is applied shall have the following dimensions, with the button in the actual release position and when projected into a plane perpendicular to the button's initial direction of motion: for enclosed buttons, an area of not less than 4,5 cm2 and a width of not less than 15 mm; for non-enclosed buttons, an area of not less than 2,5 cm2 and a width of not less than 10 mm. The buckle release area shall be coloured red. No other part of the buckle shall be of this colour. When the seat is occupied, red warning light in any part of the buckle is permitted if it is switched off after the occupant has buckled.

6.2.2.3.   The buckle, when tested in accordance with paragraph 7.5.3 below, shall operate normally.

6.2.2.4.   The buckle shall be capable of withstanding repeated operation and, prior to the dynamic test specified in paragraph 7.7 below shall undergo 5 000 opening and closing cycles under normal conditions of use. In the case of harness belt buckles, this test may be carried out without all the tongues being introduced.

6.2.2.5.   The force required to open the buckle in the test as prescribed in paragraph 7.8 below shall not exceed 6 daN.

6.2.2.6.   The buckle shall be tested for strength as prescribed in paragraphs 7.5.1 and, where appropriate, 7.5.5 below. It shall not break, be seriously distorted or become detached under the tension set up by the prescribed load.

6.2.2.7.   In the case of buckles which incorporate a component common to two assemblies, the strength and release tests of paragraphs 7.7 and 7.8 below shall also be carried out with the part of the buckle pertaining to one assembly being engaged in the mating part pertaining to the other, if it is possible for the buckle to be so assembled in use.

6.2.3.   Belt adjusting device

6.2.3.1.   The belt after being put on by the wearer, shall either adjust automatically to fit him or be such that the manually adjusting device shall be readily accessible to the seated wearer and shall be convenient and easy to use. It shall also allow the belt to be tightened with one hand to suit the wearer's body size and the position of the vehicle seat.

6.2.3.2.   Two samples of each belt adjusting device shall be tested in accordance with the requirements of paragraph 7.3 below. The strap slip shall not exceed 25 mm for each sample of adjusting device and the sum of shifts for all the adjusting devices shall not exceed 40 mm.

6.2.3.3.   All the adjustment devices shall be tested for strength as prescribed in paragraph 7.5.1 below. They shall not break or become detached under the tension set up by the prescribed load.

6.2.3.4.   When tested in accordance with paragraph 7.5.6 below the force required to operate any manually adjusting device shall not exceed 5 daN.

6.2.4.   Attachments and belt adjustment devices for height

The attachments shall be tested for strength as prescribed in paragraphs 7.5.1 and 7.5.2 below. The actual belt adjustment devices for height shall be tested for strength as prescribed in paragraph 7.5.2 of this Regulation where they have not been tested on the vehicle in application of Regulation No 14 (in its last version of amendments) relative to anchorages of safety-belts. These parts shall not break or become detached under the tension set up by the prescribed load.

6.2.5.   Retractors

Retractors shall be subjected to tests and shall fulfil the requirements specified below, including the tests for strength prescribed in paragraphs 7.5.1 and 7.5.2 below. (These requirements are such that they exclude non-locking retractors.)

6.2.5.1.   Manually unlocking retractors

6.2.5.1.1.

The strap of a safety-belt assembly equipped with a manually unlocking retractor shall not move more than 25 mm between locking positions of the retractor.

6.2.5.1.2.

The strap of a safety-belt assembly shall extract from a manually unlocking retractor within 6 mm of its maximum length when a tension of not less than 1,4 daN and not more than 2,2 daN is applied to the strap in the normal direction of pull.

6.2.5.1.3.

The strap shall be withdrawn from the retractor and allowed to retract repeatedly by the method described in paragraph 7.6.1 until 5 000 cycles have been completed. The retractor shall then be subjected to the corrosion test given in paragraph 7.2 and to the dust test given in paragraph 7.6.3 below. It shall then satisfactorily complete a further 5 000 cycles of withdrawal and retraction. After the above tests, the retractor shall operate correctly and still meet the requirements of paragraphs 6.2.5.1.1 and 6.2.5.1.2 above.

6.2.5.2.   Automatically locking retractors

6.2.5.2.1.

The strap of a safety-belt assembly equipped with an automatically locking retractor shall not move more than 30 mm between locking positions of the retractor. After a rearward movement of the wearer, the belt shall either remain at its initial position or return to that position automatically on subsequent forward movements of the wearer.

6.2.5.2.2.

If the retractor is part of a lap belt, the retracting force of the strap shall be not less than 0,7 daN when measured in the free length between the dummy and the retractor in accordance with paragraph 7.6.4 below. If the retractor is part of an upper torso restraint, the retracting force of the strap shall be not less than 0,1 daN and not more than 0,7 daN when similarly measured.

6.2.5.2.3.

The strap shall be withdrawn from the retractor and allowed to retract repeatedly by the method described in paragraph 7.6.1 until 5 000 cycles have been completed. The retractor shall then be subjected to the corrosion test given in paragraph 7.2 and after that to the dust test given in paragraph 7.6.3 below. It shall then satisfactorily complete a further 5 000 cycles of withdrawal and retraction. After the above tests the retractor shall operate correctly and still meet the requirements of paragraphs 6.2.5.2.1 and 6.2.5.2.2 above.

6.2.5.3.   Emergency locking retractors

6.2.5.3.1.

An emergency locking retractor, when tested in accordance with paragraph 7.6.2 below, shall satisfy the conditions below. In the case of a single sensitivity, according to paragraph 2.14.4.1 of this Regulation, only the specifications regarding deceleration of the vehicle are valid.

6.2.5.3.1.1.

The locking shall have occurred when the deceleration of the vehicle reaches 0,45 g (6) in the case of type 4 or 0,85 g in the case of type 4N retractors.

6.2.5.3.1.2.

It shall not lock for values of acceleration of the strap measured in the direction of the extraction of the strap of less than 0,8 g in the case of type 4 or less than 1,0 g in the case of type 4N retractors.

6.2.5.3.1.3.

It shall not lock when its sensing device is tilted 12° or less in any direction from the installation position specified by its manufacturer.

6.2.5.3.1.4.

It shall lock when its sensing device is tilted by more than 27° in the case of type 4 or 40° in the case of type 4N retractors in any direction from the installation position specified by its manufacturer.

6.2.5.3.1.5.

In cases where the operation of a retractor depends on an external signal or power source, the design shall ensure that the retractor locks automatically upon failure or interruption of that signal or power source. However, this requirement need not be met in the case of a retractor with multiple sensitivities, provided only one sensitivity is dependent on an external signal or power source and the failure of the signal or power source is indicated to the driver by optical and/or acoustical means.

6.2.5.3.2.

When tested in accordance with paragraph 7.6.2 below, an emergency locking retractor with multiple sensitivity, including strap sensitivity, shall comply with the specified requirements and also lock up when strap acceleration measured in the direction of unreeling is not less than 3,0 g.

6.2.5.3.3.

In the case of the tests mentioned in paragraphs 6.2.5.3.1 and 6.2.5.3.2 above the amount of strap movement which may occur before the retractor locks shall not exceed 50 mm starting at the length given in paragraph 7.6.2.1. In the case of the test mentioned in paragraph 6.2.5.3.1.2 above locking shall not occur during the 50 mm of strap movement starting at the length given in paragraph 7.6.2.1 below.

6.2.5.3.4.

If the retractor is part of a lap belt, the retracting force of the strap shall be not less than 0,7 daN when measured in the free length between the dummy and the retractor in accordance with paragraph 7.6.4. If the retractor is part of an upper torso restraint, the retracting force of the strap shall be not less than 0,1 daN and not more than 0,7 daN when similarly measured, except for a belt equipped with a tension-reducing device, in which case the minimum retracting force may be reduced to 0,05 daN only when such a device is in operation mode. If the strap passes through a guide or pulley, the retracting force shall be measured in the free length between the dummy and the guide or pulley. If the assembly incorporates a device that upon manual or automatic operation prevents the strap from being completely retracted, such a device shall not be operated when these requirements are assessed. If the assembly incorporates a tension-reducing device, the retracting force of the strap described in the above shall be measured with the device in operation mode and non-operation mode when these requirements are assessed before and after durability tests according to paragraph 6.2.5.3.5 below.

6.2.5.3.5.

The strap shall be withdrawn from the retractor and allowed to retract repeatedly by the method described in paragraph 7.6.1 until 40 000 cycles have been completed. The retractor shall then be subjected to the corrosion test given in paragraph 7.2 and after that to the dust test prescribed in paragraph 7.6.3 below. It shall then satisfactorily complete a further 5 000 cycles (making 45 000 in all). If the assembly incorporates a tension-reducing device, the above tests shall be conducted on condition that the tension-reducing device is in operation mode and in non-operation mode. After the above tests, the retractor shall operate correctly and still meet the requirements of paragraphs 6.2.5.3.1, 6.2.5.3.3 and 6.2.5.3.4 above.

6.2.5.4.   Retractors shall fulfil, after durability test according to paragraph 6.2.5.3.5, and immediately after the retracting force measurement according to paragraph 6.2.5.3.4 above, all next two specifications:

6.2.5.4.1.

When retractors except automatically locking retractors are tested according to paragraph 7.6.4.2 below, the retractors shall be able to avoid any slack between torso and belt, and,

6.2.5.4.2.

When the buckle is unlatched to release the tongue, the retractor alone shall be able to retract strap fully.

6.2.6.   Pre-loading device

6.2.6.1.   After being submitted to corrosion testing in accordance with paragraph 7.2 below, the pre-loading device (including the impact sensor connected to the device by the original plugs but without any current passing through them) shall operate normally.

6.2.6.2.   It shall be verified that inadvertent operation of the device does not involve any risk of bodily injury for wearer.

6.2.6.3.   In the case of pyrotechnic pre-loading devices:

6.2.6.3.1.

After being submitted to conditioning in accordance with paragraph 7.9.1 below, operation of the pre-loading device shall not have been activated by temperature and the device shall operate normally.

6.2.6.3.2.

Precautions shall be taken to prevent the hot gases expelled from igniting adjacent flammable materials.

6.3.   Straps

6.3.1.   General

6.3.1.1.   The characteristics of the straps shall be such as to ensure that their pressure on the wearer's body is distributed as evenly as possible over their width and that they do not twist even under tension. They shall have energy-absorbing and energy-dispersing capacities. The straps shall have finished selvages which shall not become unravelled in use.

6.3.1.2.   The width of the strap under load of 980 daN + 100 - 0 daN shall be not less than 46 mm. This dimension shall be measured according to the test prescribed in paragraph 7.4.3 below, stopping the machine at the above mentioned load (7).

6.3.2.   Strength after room-conditioning

In the case of the two straps samples conditioned in conformity with paragraph 7.4.1.1 the breaking load of the strap, determined as prescribed in paragraph 7.4.2 below, shall be not less than 1 470 daN. The difference between the breaking loads of the two samples shall not exceed 10 per cent of the greater of the breaking loads measured.

6.3.3.   Strength after special conditioning

In the case of the two strap samples conditioned in conformity with one of the provisions of paragraph 7.4.1 (except 7.4.1.1) below, the breaking load of the strap shall be not less than 75 per cent of average of the loads determined in the test referred to in paragraph 6.3.2 and not less than 1 470 daN. The Technical Service conducting the tests may dispense with one or more of these tests if the composition of the material used or information already available renders the test or tests superfluous.

6.4.   Belt assembly or restraint system

6.4.1.   Dynamic test

6.4.1.1.   The belt assembly or restraint system shall be subjected to a dynamic test in conformity with paragraph 7.7 below.

6.4.1.2.   The dynamic test shall be performed on two belt assemblies which have not previously been under load, except in the case of belt assemblies forming part of restraint systems when the dynamic test shall be performed on the restraint systems intended for one group of seats which have not previously been under load. The buckles of the belt assemblies to be tested shall have met the requirements of paragraph 6.2.2.4 above. In the case of safety-belts with retractors, the retractor shall have been subjected to the dust resistance test laid down in paragraph 7.6.3; in addition, in the case of safety-belts or restraint systems equipped with a pre-loading device comprising pyrotechnic means, the device shall have been subjected to the conditioning specified in paragraph 7.9.1 below.

6.4.1.2.1.

The belts shall have undergone the corrosion test described in paragraph 7.2, after which the buckles shall be subjected to 500 additional opening and closing cycles under normal conditions of use.

6.4.1.2.2.

Safety-belts with retractors shall have been subjected either to the tests described in paragraph 6.2.5.2 or to those described in paragraph 6.2.5.3 above. If, however, a retractor has already been subjected to the corrosion test in accordance with the provisions of paragraph 6.4.1.2.1 above, this test need not be repeated.

6.4.1.2.3.

In the case of a belt intended for use with a belt adjustment device for height, as defined in paragraph 2.14.6 above, the test shall be carried out with the device adjusted in the most unfavourable position(s) chosen by the Technical Service responsible for testing. However, if the belt adjustment device for height is constituted by the belt anchorage, as approved in accordance with the provisions of Regulation No 14, the Technical Service responsible for testing may, at its discretion, apply the provisions of paragraph 7.7.1 below.

6.4.1.2.4.

In the case of safety-belt with a preloading device the minimum displacement specified in paragraph 6.4.1.3.2 below may be reduced by half. For the purpose of this test, the preloading device shall be in operation.

6.4.1.2.5.

In the case of a safety-belt with tension-reducing device, it shall be subjected to a durability test with such a device in operation mode according to paragraph 6.2.5.3.5 before a dynamic test. The dynamic test shall then be conducted with the tension-reducing device in operation mode.

6.4.1.3.   During this test, the following requirements shall be met:

6.4.1.3.1.

No part of the belt assembly or a restraint system affecting the restraint of the occupant shall break and no buckles or locking system or displacement system shall release or unlock; and

6.4.1.3.2.

The forward displacement of the manikin shall be between 80 and 200 mm at pelvic level in the case of lap belts. In the case of other types of belts, the forward displacement shall be between 80 and 200 mm at pelvic level and between 100 and 300 mm at chest level. In the case of a harness belt, the minimum displacements specified above may be reduced by half. These displacements are the displacements in relation to the measurement points shown in Annex 7, Figure 6 to this Regulation.

6.4.1.3.3.

In the case of a safety-belt intended to be used in an outboard front seating position protected by an airbag in front of it, the displacement of the chest reference point may exceed that specified in paragraph 6.4.1.3.2 above if its speed at this value does not exceed 24 km/h.

6.4.1.4.   In the case of a restraint system:

6.4.1.4.1.

The movement of the chest reference point may exceed that specified in paragraph 6.4.1.3.2 above if it can be shown either by calculation or a further test that no part of the torso or the head of the manikin used in the dynamic test would have come into contact with any forward rigid part of the vehicle other than the chest with the steering assembly, if the latter meets the requirements of Regulation No 12 and provided contact does not occur at a speed higher than 24 km/h. For this assessment the seat shall be considered to be in the position specified in paragraph 7.7.1.5 below.

6.4.1.4.2.

In vehicles where such devices are used, the displacement and locking systems enabling the occupants of all seats to leave the vehicle shall still be operable by hand after the dynamic test.

6.4.1.5.   By way of derogation, in case of a restraint system, the displacements may be greater than those specified in paragraph 6.4.1.3.2 in the case where the upper anchorage fitted to the seat profits from the derogation provided in paragraph 7.4 of Regulation No 14.

6.4.2.   Strength after abrasion conditioning

6.4.2.1.   For both samples conditioned in compliance with paragraph 7.4.1.6 below, the breaking strength shall be assessed as prescribed in paragraphs 7.4.2 and 7.5 below. It shall be at least equal to 75 per cent of the breaking strength average determined during tests on unabraded straps and not less than the minimum load specified for the item being tested. Difference between breaking strength of the two samples shall not exceed 20 per cent of the highest measured breaking strength. For type 1 and type 2 procedures, the breaking strength test shall be carried out on strap samples only (para. 7.4.2). For type 3 procedure, the breaking strength test shall be carried out on the strap in combination with the metal component involved (para. 7.5).

6.4.2.2.   The parts of the belt assembly to be subjected to an abrasion procedure are given in the following table and the procedure types which may be appropriate for them are indicated by ‘x’. A new sample shall be used for each procedure.

	Procedure 1	Procedure 2	Procedure 3
Attachment	—	—	x
Guide or Pulley	—	x	—
Buckle-loop	—	x	x
Adjusting device	x	—	x
Parts sewn to the strap	—	—	x

7.   TESTS

7.1.   Use of samples submitted for approval of a type of belt or restraint system (see Annex 13 to this Regulation)

7.1.1.   Two belts or restraint systems are required for the buckle inspection, the low-temperature buckle test, the low-temperature test described in paragraph 7.5.4 below where necessary, the buckle durability test, the belt corrosion test, the retractor operating tests, the dynamic test and the buckle-opening test after the dynamic test. One of these two samples shall be used for the inspection of the belt or restraint system.

7.1.2.   One belt or restraint system is required for the inspection of the buckle and the strength test on the buckle, the attachment mountings, the belt adjusting devices and, where necessary, the retractors.

7.1.3.   Two belts or restraint systems are required for the inspection of the buckle, the micro-slip test and the abrasion test. The belt adjusting device operating test shall be conducted on one of these two samples.

7.1.4.   The sample of strap shall be used for testing the breaking strength of the strap. Part of this sample shall be preserved so long as the approval remains valid.

7.2.   Corrosion test

7.2.1.   A complete safety-belt assembly shall be positioned in a test chamber as prescribed in Annex 12 to this Regulation. In the case of an assembly incorporating a retractor, the strap shall be unwound to full length less 300 ± 3 mm. Except for short interruptions that may be necessary, for example, to check and replenish the salt solution, the exposure test shall proceed continuously for a period of 50 hours.

7.2.2.   On completion of the exposure test the assembly shall be gently washed, or dipped in clean running water with a temperature not higher than 38 °C to remove any salt deposit that may have formed and then allowed to dry at room temperature for 24 hours before inspection in accordance with paragraph 6.2.1.2 above.

7.3.   Micro-slip test (see Annex 11, Figure 3, to this Regulation)

7.3.1.   The samples to be submitted to the micro-slip test shall be kept for a minimum of 24 hours in an atmosphere having a temperature of 20 ± 5 °C and a relative humidity of 65 ± 5 per cent. The test shall be carried out at a temperature between 15 and 30 °C.

7.3.2.   It shall be ensured that the free section of the adjusting device points either up or down on the test bench, as in the vehicle.

7.3.3.   A 5 daN load shall be attached to the lower end of the section of strap. The other end shall be subjected to a back and forth motion, the total amplitude being 300 ± 20 mm (see figure).

7.3.4.   If there is a free end serving as reserve strap, it shall in no way be fastened or clipped to the section under load.

7.3.5.   It shall be ensured that on the test bench the strap, in the slack position, descends in a concave curve from the adjusting device, as in the vehicle. The 5 daN load applied on the test bench shall be guided vertically in such a way as to prevent the load swaying and the belt twisting. The attachment shall be fixed to the 5 daN load as in the vehicle.

7.3.6.   Before the actual start of the test, a series of 20 cycles shall be completed so that the self-tightening system settles properly.

7.3.7.   1 000 cycles shall be completed at a frequency of 0,5 cycles per second, the total amplitude being 300 ± 20 mm. The 5 daN load shall be applied only during the time corresponding to a shift of 100 ± 20 mm for each half period.

7.4.   Conditioning of straps and breaking-strength test (static)

7.4.1.   Conditioning of straps for the breaking-strength test

Samples cut from the strap referred to in paragraph 3.2.2.3 above shall be conditioned as follows:

7.4.1.1.   Temperature-conditioning and hygrometric

The strap shall be conditioned in accordance with ISO 139 (2005), using the standard atmosphere or the standard alternative atmosphere. If the test is not carried out immediately after conditioning, the specimen shall be placed in a hermetically-closed receptacle until the test begins. The breaking load shall be determined within 5 minutes after removal of the strap from the conditioning atmosphere or from the receptacle.

7.4.1.2.   Light-conditioning

7.4.1.2.1.   The provisions of Recommendation ISO 105-B02 (1994/Amd2:2000) shall apply. The strap shall be exposed to light for the time necessary to produce a contrast equal to Grade 4 on the grey scale on Standard Blue Dye No 7.

7.4.1.2.2.   After exposure, the strap shall be conditioned as described under paragraph 7.4.1.1. If the test is not carried out immediately after conditioning the specimen shall be placed in a hermetically-closed receptacle until the test begins. The breaking load shall be determined within 5 minutes after removal of the strap from the conditioning installation.

7.4.1.3.   Cold-conditioning

7.4.1.3.1.   The strap shall be conditioned as described under paragraph 7.4.1.1 above.

7.4.1.3.2.   The strap shall then be kept for 1,5 hours on a plane surface in a low-temperature chamber in which the air temperature is – 30 ± 5 °C. It shall then be folded and the fold shall be loaded with a mass of 2 kg previously cooled to – 30 ± 5 °C. When the strap has been kept under load for 30 minutes in the same low-temperature chamber, the mass shall be removed and the breaking load shall be measured within 5 minutes after removal of the strap from the low-temperature chamber.

7.4.1.4.   Heat-conditioning

7.4.1.4.1.   The strap shall be kept for 3 hours in a heating cabinet in an atmosphere having a temperature of 60 ± 5 °C and a relative humidity of 65 ± 5 per cent.

7.4.1.4.2.   The breaking load shall be determined within 5 minutes after removal of the strap from the heating cabinet.

7.4.1.5.   Exposure to water

7.4.1.5.1.   The strap shall be kept fully immersed for 3 hours in distilled water, at a temperature of 20 ± 5 °C, to which a trace of a wetting agent has been added. Any wetting agent suitable for the fibre under test may be used.

7.4.1.5.2.   The breaking load shall be determined within 10 minutes after removal of the strap from the water.

7.4.1.6.   Abrasion conditioning

7.4.1.6.1.   The abrasion conditioning will be performed on every device in which the strap is in contact with a rigid part of the belt, with the exception of all adjusting devices where the micro-slip test (paragraph 7.3) shows that the strap slips by less than half the prescribed value, in which case, the procedure 1 abrasion conditioning (paragraph 7.4.1.6.4.1) will not be necessary. The setting on the conditioning device will approximately maintain the relative position of strap and contact area.

7.4.1.6.2.   The samples shall be conditioned as described under paragraph 7.4.1.1. The ambient temperature during the abrasion procedure shall be between 15 and 30 °C.

7.4.1.6.3.   In the table below are listed the general conditions for each abrasion procedure.

	Load daN	Frequency Hz	Cycles numbers	Shift mm
Procedure 1	2,5	0,5	5 000	300 ± 20
Procedure 2	0,5	0,5	45 000	300 ± 20
Procedure 3 (8)	0 to 5	0,5	45 000	—

The shift given in the fifth column of this table represents the amplitude of a back and forth motion applied to the strap.

7.4.1.6.4.   Particular conditioning procedures

7.4.1.6.4.1.

Procedure 1: for cases where the strap slides through an adjusting device. A vertical steady load of 2,5 daN shall be maintained on one end of the strap - the other end of the strap shall be attached to a device giving the strap a horizontal back and forth motion. The adjusting device shall be placed on the horizontal strap so that the strap remains under tension (see Annex 11, Figure 1, to this Regulation).

7.4.1.6.4.2.

Procedure 2: for cases where the strap changes direction in passing through a rigid part. During this test, the angles of the straps shall be maintained as shown in Annex 11, Figure 2, to this Regulation. The steady load of 0,5 daN shall be maintained during the test. For cases where the strap changes direction more than once in passing through a rigid part, the load of 0,5 daN may be increased so as to achieve the prescribed strap movement of 300 mm through that rigid part.

7.4.1.6.4.3.

Procedure 3: for cases where the strap is fixed to a rigid part by sewing or similar means. The total back and forth motion shall be 300 ± 20 mm but the 5 daN load shall only be applied during a shift of 100 ± 20 mm for each half period (see Annex 11, Figure 3, to this Regulation).

7.4.2.   Test of breaking strength of strap (static test)

7.4.2.1.   The test shall be carried out each time on two new samples of strap, of sufficient length, conditioned in conformity with the provisions of paragraph 7.4.1 above.

7.4.2.2.   Each strap shall be gripped between the clamps of a tensile-testing machine. The clamps shall be so designed as to avoid breakage of the strap at or near them. The speed of traverse shall be about 100 mm/min. The free length of the specimen between the clamps of the machine at the start of the test shall be 200 mm ± 40 mm.

7.4.2.3.   The tension shall be increased until the strap breaks, and the breaking load shall be noted.

7.4.2.4.   If the strap slips or breaks at or within 10 mm of either of the clamps the test shall be invalid and a new test shall be carried out on another specimen.

7.4.3.   Width under load

7.4.3.1.   The test shall be carried out each time on two new samples of strap, of sufficient length conditioned in conformity with the provisions of paragraph 7.4.1 above.

7.4.3.2.   Each strap shall be gripped between the clamps of a tensile-testing machine. The clamps shall be so designed as to avoid breaking of the strap at or near them. The speed of traverse shall be about 100 mm/min. The free length of the specimen between the clamps of the machine at the start of the test shall be 200 mm ± 40 mm.

7.4.3.3.   When the load reaches 980 daN + 100 – 0 daN, the machine shall be stopped and the measurement shall be completed within 5 seconds. The test has to be performed separately from the tensile test.

7.5.   Test of belt assembly components incorporating rigid parts

7.5.1.   The buckle and the adjusting device shall be connected to the tensile-testing apparatus by the parts of the belt assembly to which they are normally attached, and the load shall then build up to 980 daN.

In the case of harness belts, the buckle shall be connected to the testing apparatus by the straps which are attached to the buckle and the tongue or two tongues located in an approximately symmetrical way to the geometric centre of the buckle. If the buckle, or the adjusting device, is part of the attachment or of the common part of a three-point belt, the buckle or adjusting device shall be tested with the attachment, in conformity with paragraph 7.5.2 below, except in the case of retractors having a pulley or strap guide at the upper belt anchorage, when the load will be 980 daN and the length of strap remaining wound on the reel shall be the length resulting from locking as close as possible to 450 mm from the end of the strap.

7.5.2.   The attachments and any belt adjustment devices for height shall be tested in the manner indicated in paragraph 7.5.1 above, but the load shall be 1 470 daN and shall, subject to the provisions of the second sentence of paragraph 7.7.1 below, be applied in the least favourable conditions likely to occur in a vehicle in which the belt is correctly installed. In the case of retractors the test is performed with the strap completely unwound from the reel.

7.5.3.   Two samples of the complete belt assembly shall be placed in a refrigerated cabinet at – 10 ± 1 °C for 2 hours. The mating parts of the buckle shall be coupled together manually immediately after being removed from the refrigerated cabinet.

7.5.4.   Two samples of complete belt assembly shall be placed in a refrigerated cabinet at – 10 °C ± 1 °C for 2 hours. The rigid items and parts made of plastics under test shall then be laid in turn upon a flat rigid steel surface (which has been kept with the samples in the refrigerated cabinet) placed on the horizontal surface of a compact rigid block with a mass of at least 100 kg and within 30 seconds of being removed from the refrigerated cabinet, an 18 kg steel mass shall be allowed to fall under gravity through 300 mm on to the test sample. The impact face of the 18 kg mass shall take the form of a convex surface with a hardness of at least 45 HRC having a transverse radius of 10 mm and a longitudinal radius of 150 mm placed along the centre line of the mass. One test sample shall be tested with the axis of the curved bar in line with the strap and the other sample shall be tested at 90° to the strap.

7.5.5.   Buckles having parts common to two safety-belts shall be loaded in such a way as to simulate the conditions of use in the vehicle with seats in the mid position of their adjustment. A load of 1 470 daN shall be applied simultaneously to each strap. The direction of the application of load shall be established according to paragraph 7.7.1 below. A suitable device for the test is shown in Annex 10 to this Regulation.

7.5.6.   When testing a manually adjusting device, the strap shall be drawn steadily through the adjusting device, having regard for the normal conditions of use, at a rate of approximately 100 mm/s and the maximum force measured to the nearest 0,1 daN after the first 25 mm of strap movement. The test shall be carried out in both directions of strap travel through the device, the strap being cycled 10 times prior to the measurement.

7.6.   Additional tests for safety-belts with retractors

7.6.1.   Durability of retractor mechanism

7.6.1.1.   The strap shall be withdrawn and allowed to retract for the required number of cycles at a rate of not more than 30 cycles per minute. In the case of emergency locking retractors, a snatch to lock the retractor shall be introduced at each fifth cycle.

The snatches shall occur in equal numbers at each of five different extractions, namely, 90, 80, 75, 70 and 65 per cent of the total length of the strap remaining wound on the retractor. However, where more than 900 mm is provided the above percentages shall be related to the final 900 mm of strap which can be withdrawn from the retractor.

7.6.1.2.   A suitable apparatus for the tests specified in paragraph 7.6.1.1 above is shown in Annex 3 to this Regulation.

7.6.2.   Locking of emergency locking retractors

7.6.2.1.   The retractor shall be tested once for locking when the strap has been unwound to full length less 300 ± 3 mm.

7.6.2.1.1.   In the case of a retractor actuated by strap movement, the extraction shall be in the direction in which it normally occurs when the retractor is installed in a vehicle.

7.6.2.1.2.   When retractors are being tested for sensitivity to vehicle deceleration they shall be tested at the above extraction along two perpendicular axes, which are horizontal if the retractor is installed in a vehicle as specified by the safety-belt manufacturer. When this position is not specified, the testing authority shall consult the safety-belt manufacturer. One of these axes shall be in the direction chosen by the Technical Service conducting the approval test to give the most adverse conditions with respect to actuation of the locking mechanism.

7.6.2.2.   A suitable apparatus for the tests specified in paragraph 7.6.2.1 above is described in Annex 4 to this Regulation. The design of any such test apparatus shall ensure that the required acceleration is given before the webbing is withdrawn out of the retractor by more than 5 mm and that the withdrawal takes place at an average rate of increase of acceleration of at least 55 g/s (9) and not more than 150 g/s (9) in testing sensitivity for strap movement and of at least 25 g/s (9) and not more than 150 g/s (9) in testing sensitivity for vehicle deceleration (9).

7.6.2.3.   To check conformity with the requirements of paragraphs 6.2.5.3.1.3 and 6.2.5.3.1.4, the retractor shall be mounted on a horizontal table and the table tilted with a speed not exceeding 2° per second until locking has occurred. The test shall be repeated with tilting in other directions to ensure that the requirements are fulfilled.

7.6.3.   Dust resistance

7.6.3.1.   The retractor shall be positioned in a test chamber as described in Annex 5 to this Regulation. It shall be mounted in an orientation similar to that in which it is mounted in the vehicle. The test chamber shall contain dust as specified in paragraph 7.6.3.2 below. A length of 500 mm of the strap shall be extracted from the retractor and kept extracted, except that it shall be subjected to 10 complete cycles of retraction and withdrawal within 1 or 2 minutes after each agitation of the dust. For a period of 5 hours, the dust shall be agitated every 20 minutes for 5 seconds by compressed air free of oil and moisture at a gauge pressure of 5,5 × 105 ± 0,5 × 105 Pa entering through an orifice, 1,5 ± 0,1 mm in diameter.

7.6.3.2.   The dust used in the test described in paragraph 7.6.3.1 above shall consist of about 1 kg of dry quartz. The particle size distribution is as follows:

(a)	Passing 150 μm aperture, 104 μm wire diameter: 99 to 100 per cent;

(b)	Passing 105 μm aperture, 64 μm wire diameter: 76 to 86 per cent;

(c)	Passing 75 μm aperture, 52 μm wire diameter: 60 to 70 per cent.

7.6.4.   Retracting forces

7.6.4.1.   The retracting force shall be measured with the safety-belt assembly fitted to a dummy as for the dynamic test prescribed in paragraph 7.7 below. The strap tension shall be measured at the point of contact with (but just clear of) the dummy while the strap is being retracted at the approximate rate of 0,6 m/min. In the case of a safety-belt with tension-reducing device, the retracting force and strap tension shall be measured with the tension-reducing device in both operation mode and non-operation mode.

7.6.4.2.   Before the dynamic test described in paragraph 7.7 below the seated dummy, which is clothed with a cotton shirt, shall be tilted frontward until 350 mm of the strap is withdrawn from retractor, and then released to the initial position.

7.7.   Dynamic test of belt assembly or of the restraint system

7.7.1.   The belt assembly shall be mounted on a trolley equipped with the seat and the anchorage defined in Annex 6 to this Regulation. However, if the belt assembly is intended for a specific vehicle or for specific types of vehicle, the distances between the manikin and the anchorages shall be determined by the Technical Service conducting the tests, either in conformity with the instructions for fitting supplied with the belt or in conformity with the data supplied by the manufacturer of the vehicle. If the belt is equipped with a belt adjustment device for height such as defined in paragraph 2.14.6 above, the position of the device and the means of securing it shall be the same as those of the vehicle design.

In that case, when the dynamic test has been carried out for a type of vehicle it need not be repeated for other types of vehicle where each anchorage point is less than 50 mm distant from the corresponding anchorage point of the tested belt. Alternatively, manufacturers may determine hypothetical anchorage positions for testing in order to enclose the maximum number of real anchorage points.

7.7.1.1.   In the case of a safety-belt or restraint system forming part of an assembly for which type approval is requested as a restraint system, the safety-belt shall be mounted either as defined in paragraph 7.7.1 or on the part of the vehicle structure to which the restraint system is normally fitted and this part shall be rigidly attached to the test trolley in the way prescribed in paragraphs 7.7.1.2 to 7.7.1.6 below.

In the case of a safety-belt or restraint system with pre-loading devices relying on component parts other than those incorporated in the belt assembly itself, the belt assembly shall be mounted in conjunction with the necessary additional vehicle parts on the test trolley in the manner prescribed in paragraphs 7.7.1.2 to 7.7.1.6 below.

Alternatively, in the case where those devices cannot be tested on the test trolley, the manufacturer may demonstrate by a conventional frontal impact test at 50 km/h in conformity with the procedure ISO 3560 (1975) that the device complies with the requirements of the Regulation.

7.7.1.2.   The method used to secure the vehicle during the test shall not be such as to strengthen the anchorages of the seats or safety-belts or to lessen the normal deformation of the structure. No forward part of the vehicle shall be present which by limiting the forward movement of the manikin excepting the foot, would reduce the load imposed on the restraint system during the test. The parts of the structure eliminated can be replaced by parts of equivalent strength provided they do not hinder the forward movement of the manikin.

7.7.1.3.   A securing device shall be regarded as satisfactory if it produces no effect on an area extending over the whole width of the structure and if the vehicle or the structure is blocked or fixed in front at a distance of not less than 500 mm from the anchorage of the restraint system. At the rear the structure shall be secured at a sufficient distance rearwards of the anchorages to ensure that the requirements of paragraph 7.7.1.2 above are fulfilled.

7.7.1.4.   The seats of the vehicle shall be fitted and shall be placed in the position for driving use chosen by the Technical Service conducting approval tests to give the most adverse conditions with respect to strength, compatible with installing the manikin in the vehicle. The positions of the seats shall be stated in the report. The seat back, if adjustable for inclination, shall be locked as specified by the manufacturer or, in the absence of any specification, to an actual seat back angle as near as possible to 25° in the case of vehicles of categories M1 and N1 as near as possible to 15° in the case of vehicles of all other categories.

7.7.1.5.   For the assessment of the requirements in paragraph 6.4.1.4.1 above the seat shall be regarded in its most forward driving or travelling position appropriate to the dimensions of the manikin.

7.7.1.6.   All the seats of any group of seats shall be tested simultaneously.

7.7.1.7.   The dynamic tests of the harness belt system shall be carried out without the crotch strap (assembly), if there is any.

7.7.2.   The belt assembly shall be attached to the manikin in Annex 7 to this Regulation as follows: a board 25 mm thick shall be placed between the back of the manikin and the seat back. The belt shall be firmly adjusted to the manikin. The board shall then be removed so that the entire length of its back is in contact with the seat back. A check shall be made to ensure that the mode of engagement of the two parts of the buckle entails no risk of reducing the reliability of locking.

7.7.3.   The free ends of the straps shall extend sufficiently far beyond the adjusting devices to allow for slip.

7.7.4.   Deceleration or acceleration devices

The applicant shall choose to use one of the two following devices:

7.7.4.1.   Deceleration test device

The trolley shall be so propelled that at the moment of impact its free running speed is 50 km/h ± 1 km/h and the manikin remains stable. The stopping distance of the trolley shall be 40 cm ± 5 cm. The trolley shall remain horizontal throughout deceleration. The deceleration of the trolley shall be achieved by using the apparatus described in Annex 6 to this Regulation or any other device giving equivalent results. This apparatus shall comply with the performance hereafter specified:

The deceleration curve of the trolley, weighted with inert mass to produce a total mass of 455 kg ± 20 kg for safety-belts tests and 910 kg ± 40 kg for restraining systems tests where the nominal mass of the trolley and vehicle structure is 800 kg, shall remain within the hatched area of the graph in Annex 8. If necessary, the nominal mass of the trolley and attached vehicle structure can be increased by increments of 200 kg, in which case, an additional inert mass of 28 kg per increment shall be added. In no case shall the total mass of the trolley and vehicle structure and inert masses differ from the nominal value for calibration tests by more than ± 40 kg. During calibration of the stopping device, the speed of the trolley shall be 50 km/h ± 1 km/h and the stopping distance shall be of 40 cm ± 2 cm.

7.7.4.2.   Acceleration test device

The trolley shall be so propelled that its total velocity change ΔV is