ABS Activation Handle

To inflate the airbag you will require a  white ABS Activation handle to activate the cartridge and the cartridge to fill the airbags.

Inside the white activation handle there is an small pressurized explosive capsule. It contains 0.19 grams of explosive. When the handle is triggered, the energy of the capsule will activate the cartridge. Therefore, the handle can only be used once as by pulling the activation handle, the capsule will explode resulting in pressure which punctures the cartridge and then airbags are filled.

The pressurized capsule functions for limited time only. We therefore do not recommend the use of unused cartridges after 3 winter seasons.

The metal pin on the side opening of the release handle indicates the maximum operating time. Gold coloured metal pins indicate an expiry date of May 2013.

The pin has to be firmly fixed and you should not be able to see the red line. If you can see the red line on the pin, the handle has not been charged and therefore will not work properly! Using a damaged handle could cause it to burst before necessary.

The Activation Handle can only be used once but it is refillable.

Attaching the activation handle

Align the pin with the brass coupler and push the handle in. With the other hand flip up the plastic flap which will administer the counter pressure. The brass coupler will automatically snap back. The handle is then attached properly and is ready to use!

It will be impossible to activate if the handle is not attached properly and is stuck due to the coupler snapping back into place.

Only attach the handle if a full cartridge has been screwed in. When activating without a cartridge or with an empty one, the system will be damaged and the pin must be exchanged.

The Velcro closure secures the activation handle in order to avoid unwanted activations. Before you leave a patrolled area, the red Velcro closure must be completely loosened and attached behind the activation handle to facilitate an unhindered activation. A tightly fastened Velcro usually prohibits an activation.

We recommend that you remove the activation to avoid unwanted activations. Especially in situations where you could damage yourself or others such as on chairlifts, in gondolas, in the helicopter, the bus, train, etc.

If the activation handle isn't at a comfortable position that works well for you you can adjust the position to the appropriate height. The best position of the activation handle is between your chest and shoulder.

Open and undo the Velcro closure, attach the handle plate to the appropriate plastic grommet and fasten the Velcro closure. Make sure that the activation handle is not obstructed by clothing and that it can be easily reached.

A retail shop will be able to attach the activation handle on the right hand strap if so desired by left-handed clients. A special handle plate is therefore needed.

In order to remove the handle, undo the Velcro closure and push the coupler upwards. The activation handle will pop out without you pulling on it. Do not pull the charged activation handle, the system will be activated! Remove the handle when ABS backpack is not in use and store it in the pocket located at the hip strap.