MODULE H

CORRECT INSTALLATION OF
CHILD RESTRAINT SYSTEMS

HS 366 R5/04
HS 366 R5/04
MODULE H: CORRECT INSTALLATION OF CHILD RESTRAINT
SYSTEMS

Objectives At the completion of this module, the participant will be able to:

1. Explain the procedure for correct installation of a child restraint system.

2. Demonstrate correct installation of a child restraint system.
3. Determine the incorrect installation of a child restraint system.
4. Propose strategies to improve the installation of a child restraint system.
5. Teach parents/caregivers how to correctly install a child restraint system in
their vehicle.
6. Explain the uses and limitations of instruction related to child restraint
systems and vehicles.
7. Describe the function of a tether strap.
8. Propose strategies to limit air bag injuries to children.

Content

< Correct Installation of Child Restraint Systems

< Reasons for Incorrect Installation of Child Restraint Systems
< Compatibility Issues
< Child Restraint Systems and Air Bags
< Child Restraint Systems and LATCH
< Tether Systems

Learning Activities
Instructor-led presentation
Instructor-led demonstration
Hands-on exercise #5: Installing seats

Materials Needed
Module overheads
Hands-on exercise worksheets
Clipboards
Flip Chart
Demonstration CRS and parts (Refer to list in Planning and Logistics Module)
Sample seating configurations (if available) & belt system configurations (Dial-a-
belt)
Locking clips (regular & belt shortening)
Sample tether strap

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 Lesson Plan Notes

CORRECT INSTALLATION OF CHILD

RESTRAINT SYSTEMS

Objectives

A. Importance of Correct Installation

1. Installing the CRS securely in the

vehicle is the third step in the three
part process of correct use.

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 Lesson Plan Notes

2. In addition to being sure that the CRS

is correctly oriented (forward/rear
facing) in the vehicle and that the
safest position is chosen, a tight and
locked safety belt securing the seat is
critical to providing the maximum
protection for a child in a crash.

a. FMVSS 213 allows rotation of rear-

facing seats down to 70 degrees
from vertical.

b. FMVSS 213 allows for 28" and 32"

of head excursion for forward-
facing seats in dynamic testing.

c. Testing is done with a tight lap

belt.

d. Any slack in the belt will allow

even more movement in a real-
world crash.

B. Reasons for Incorrect Installations

1. Lack of information

2. Lack of instructions

3. Failure to read instructions

4. Confusing instructions

a. Information may not cover all

aspects of compatibility and can
be contradictory.

b. CRS instructions do not go into

some of the less common types
of safety belts and the potential
"fixes."

c. Vehicle manuals usually give

specific information about the
safety belts and other safety
features in each model.
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 Lesson Plan Notes

5. CRS and vehicle incompatibilities

C. Elements of Correct Installation

1. Direction of CRS:

a. Correct forward/rear-facing
orientation

(1) Rear-facing until the child is at

least one year old and at
least 20 lbs.

(a) Recline angle

- Semi-reclined (no
more than about 450)
for rear-facing. Note :
Refer to owner’s
manual of the CRS for
any variations that
could exist.

(2) Upright for forward-facing

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 Lesson Plan Notes

2. Selecting the safest CRS location.

General considerations include:

a. Should the CRS be installed in the

front or back seat?

(1) In general, the back seat is

safer than the front.

(2) As a rule, the center rear is

safest position.

(3) Rear seat/center position

may not work well for
installing CRSs.

(a) CRS manufacturer’s

instructions may not allow
certain vehicle seating
positions.

(b) Vehicle owners’ manual

may not allow CRS
installation in certain
seating positions.

(c) LATCH may not be

available in the
rear/center position.

b. Is there a passenger air bag in

the vehicle? If yes:

(1) Never place a rear-facing

CRS in the front seat if the air
bag is turned on. Unless air
bag can be disconnected
with an on/off switch.
HS 366 R5/04 H-5
 Lesson Plan Notes

(2) Children ages 12 and under

should ride in the back seat.

c. Physical dimensions and

properties of the vehicle seat
such as:

(1) Contours and orientation of

vehicle seat

(2) Is there enough space for the

seat?

At least 80% of the CRS base

or “footprint” should be
directly above the vehicle
seat cushion.

This means no more than 20%

of the CRS footprint can hang
over the edge of the vehicle
seat.

(3) Leather vehicle seats

(a) Leather, and sometimes

vinyl, seats may make it
more difficult to install a
CRS because they are
slippery and more
pressure may need to be
exerted to get a tight fit.
In order to protect vehicle
seats, a piece of thin
rubber or fabric, an
unfolded towel, or shelf
liner may be used under
and behind the CRS.

(b) Adding friction can

create a false sense of
security and make
installation seem tighter.
Make sure the material
does not interfere with the

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 Lesson Plan Notes

tightness of the safety

belts.

d. Consider seating positions that

have belts that will stay tight (or
that can be adapted to stay
tight) or LATCH anchors.

e. Tethering availability (RF or FF)

f. Consider the needs of each child

and how they relate to the needs
of other children or adult
occupants.

g. Special considerations for infant

seats and rear-facing convertible
seats:

(1) Seat slope:

(a) Steep angle may cause

infant to ride too upright.

(b) Correct recline angle - no

more than about 45
degrees from vertical.

(c) Place tightly rolled

blanket, towel, or
newspaper - or a solid
core foam “noodle,” at
vehicle seat bight, then
position CRS on the rolled
object. This is a “fix” for
rear facing CRSs that has
been tested in laboratory
settings.

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 Lesson Plan Notes

(d) Adjustable bases are an

attempt to reduce the
need for this practice.
Unless the CRS
manufacturer indicates
otherwise - “a rule of
thumb” is to use either the
adjustable base (foot) or
a noodle/towel BUT NOT
BOTH. (CRS may not be
tested this way.)

(2) Space requirements:

(a) Front seats may need to

be pushed all the way
forward to accommodate
the rear-facing CRS in
back.

(b) A rear-facing seat can be

installed so it rests against
the back of the vehicle
seat ahead if not against
the manufacturer’s
instructions.

h. Special considerations for

forward-facing CRS:

(1) Width of CRS

(a) Vehicle seat contours

(b) Safety belt anchor points

(2) Size of vehicle

(a) Two door vehicles

(b) Small interiors

(c) Tray shields

(3) Tether strap length and

anchor location
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 Lesson Plan Notes

i. Location and selection for

multiple children and adults

Safe Location Exercise:

The purpose of this exercise is not to

establish absolute answers for these
hypothetical scenarios. It is to introduce
the students to the importance of
looking at the whole picture (e.g.,
available vehicle systems, CRS designs,
child size and behavior issues, location
accessibility, convenience, etc.).

Since there is no single rule that covers

all combinations of situations, there can
be no one right answer for this exercise.
It is important for students to learn and
understand all the factors that a real
world family must consider in reaching a
decision.

These are “Tough Choices.”

3. Finding the Correct Belt Path

a. Look on CRS for belt path arrow

or label. It may be color coded.

b. Read manufacturer’s instructions

to identify correct belt paths.

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 Lesson Plan Notes

4. Tightly Securing the CRS

a. How tight is tight enough?

(1) Install the CRS as tightly as

possible to allow for secure
installation but without
causing damage to vehicle
or CR systems.

(2) To test the installation, grab

the CRS at or near the belt
path and pull on the seat.
There should be no more than
1" of side-to-side or forward
movement at the belt path.

(3) Parents should be able to

reproduce secure installation.

b. General methods to obtain a

tight installation

(1) Place CRS on vehicle seat in

proper direction and at the
correct recline angle.

(2) Place safety belt through belt

path as directed by
manufacturer.

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 Lesson Plan Notes

(3) Place adult’s knee into the

CRS to compress vehicle seat
cushion. Use an arm or
forearm across a rear-facing
CRS with the infant already in
it and place a knee into a
forward-facing CRS.

(4) Buckle, tighten, and lock the

safety belt or lower
anchorage belt.

(5) Tug on the CRS and lap

portion of the safety belt. If it
loosens it is an improper
installation and must be fixed.

c. Check CRS installation for

tightness before each use.

D. Installation of Child Restraint with

Different Types of Safety Belts

1. Installing a child restraint system in

the vehicle is the third step in the
three-part process of correct use
(selecting, securing, installing).

2. This can also be the most confusing

and troublesome aspect of using
child restraint systems for parents. To
protect the child, the CRS must be
secured with a safety belt that is as
tight as possible and stays tight.

3. Child Passenger Safety Technicians

must understand how the different
safety belt systems work, which ones
can and cannot be used with CRSs,
and what types of fixes are needed
to make some safety belts work with
the CRSs.

4. The lap belt or lap belt portion is

what holds the CRS in place. It must
stay tight and locked at all times.
HS 366 R5/04 H-11
 Lesson Plan Notes

5. Automatic Safety Belt Systems

a. Automatic lap and shoulder with

separate belt

(1) To use with a CRS:

(a) Detach the shoulder belt

(if detachable) and
check lap belt.

(b) Refer to specific safety

belt systems in the
upcoming section to
determine suitability for
securing seats.

b. Automatic lap and shoulder

combination mounted in door

(1) Cannot be used for securing

seat since retractors used are
ELRs and door mounts
hamper routing belt
around/through seat.

(2) To use with a CRS:

(a) Have dealership install an

auxiliary manual lap belt
(has locking latch plate).

(b) Auxiliary belt is for use with

CRS only, not adult
passengers.

Note: For more information about auxiliary

belts, go to SafetyBelt USA web site
(www.carseat.org).

(c) Refer to specific safety

belt systems in the
upcoming section for
installation tips.

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 Lesson Plan Notes

c. Automatic shoulder belt with

knee bolster

(1) Cannot be used for securing

CRS since there is no lap belt
available.

(2) CRS must be installed in rear

seat, unless special auxiliary
lap belt for CRS is available
and can be obtained from
manufacturer and installed.

6. Three ways to lock a safety belt:

a. Locking latch plate

(1) When at the correct angle, it

should lock the seat in place.

(2) No other additions or

modifications should be
needed in most cases.

b. Locking retractor (ALR or

switchable in the ALR mode)

(1) Should lock the seat in place.

(2) No other additions or

modifications should be
needed in most cases.

c. Locking clips

(1) Regular locking clips (RLC).

(a) Should only be used if

really needed.

(b) Is a pre-crash positioning

device; during the crash
the retractor locks the
belt.

(c) Comes with the CRS.

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 Lesson Plan Notes

(2) Belt shortening clip (BSC); or

heavy duty locking clip.

(a) Should only be used if

absolutely necessary.

(b) Must use the heavy duty

clip designated as a BSC.

7. Using systems with a locking latch

plate.

a. A locking latch plate can be a

standard locking (bulkier),
lightweight locking (cinching), or
switchable latch plate.

b. Found on lap only or continuous

loop lap and shoulder.

(1) Generally easy to use and

secures CRS very well.

c. Route belt through correct belt

path on CRS and buckle. (If using
a switchable latch plate, switch
to locked mode first.)

d. Push down on CRS while pulling

on loose end of safety belt or
shoulder portion to tighten. If CRS
is loose, push down on it more
and pull belt tighter. Bring latch
plate up and over the lip of the
belt path if necessary and
possible.

Note: Some vehicle

manufacturers supply a “neat
clip” (a plastic clip that keeps the
“tail” end of a lap-only belt from
flapping around) on the loose
end of the lap belt webbing.
Since its purpose is cosmetic only,
it is acceptable for the
parent/owner to remove if it
HS 366 R5/04 H-14
 Lesson Plan Notes

interferes with correct CRS

installation. However, this must
be discussed and a decision
made by the parent or vehicle
owner.

e. Check for tight installation.

f. Check to be sure latch plate

angle keeps belt locked.

(1) If the standard locking latch

plate is at the wrong angle
and does not stay locked:

(a) Check the vehicle

owners’ manual for
suggestions.

(b) Try: unbuckle it and flip

the latch plate one-half
turn, and rebuckle.

(c) Try: twist webbing on the

buckle portion to shorten
so latch plate is placed
lower and away from CRS
belt path.

(d) Never use a locking clip

on a system that does not
have a retractor.

(2) If a continuous loop lap and

shoulder belt with a standard
or lightweight locking latch
plate doesn’t stay locked:

(a) Check the vehicle

owners’ manual for
suggestions.

(b) Try: twist webbing on the

buckle portion to shorten
so latch plate is placed

HS 366 R5/04 H-15

 Lesson Plan Notes

lower and away from CRS

belt path.

(c) Another option for

continuous loop lap and
shoulder belts is to use a
regular locking clip. This
will be discussed later in
this section.

Note: Many vehicle manufacturers use a

plastic button on continuous loop lap and
shoulder belts in order to meet latch plate
accessibility standards. If the button
interferes with secure installation of a CRS
in that position, the parent/ owner should
be advised of the function of the button
and the circumstances of its interference.
If the parent/owner chooses to, he/she
may remove the button. The
parent/owner should be very careful in
removing the button so that the webbing
is not damaged. Some dealerships
remove this for the consumer using a
special tool.

8. Using systems with a locking

retractor.

a. Lap belt only: may have a sewn

or, although rare, locking latch
plate.

b. Lap and shoulder: may be a

continuous loop or have
separate webbing for each
portion.

(1) May have a sliding, locking,

or sewn latch plate.

(2) Lap and shoulder with

separate webbing usually will
have the locking retractor in
HS 366 R5/04 H-16
 Lesson Plan Notes

the lap belt portion; may

have it in the shoulder belt
portion.

c. Using an ALR

(1) Pull belt all the way out.

(2) Route belt through correct

belt path on CRS and buckle.

(3) Push the CRS down into

vehicle seat cushion as far as
possible while feeding slack
into the retractor.

(4) Retractor keeps locking as

belt tightens.

(5) If CRS is loose, push down on

it more and feed more belt
into the retractor.

(6) To remove more slack –

unbuckle, feed more
webbing into retractor and
rebuckle.

(7) Check to be sure safety belt

stays locked.

d. Using a switchable retractor.

(1) Route safety belt through

correct path on CRS and
buckle; switch retractor to
ALR.

(2) Must be sure safety belt locks

and stays locked in ALR
mode.

(3) Push the CRS down into

vehicle seat cushion as far as
possible while feeding slack
into retractor.
HS 366 R5/04 H-17
 Lesson Plan Notes

(4) Retractor keeps locking as

safety belt tightens.

(5) If CRS is too loose, push down

on CRS more and feed more
belt into the retractor.

(6) When safety belt is unbuckled

and the webbing retracts all
the way back in, the retractor
converts back to ELR.

e. Special situations – switchable

retractor

(1) May need to change back to

ELR and use locking clip if the
tension on the shoulder belt
pulls too hard and tilts the
CRS to the degree that it is
pulled off of the cushion on
one side.

(2) When used with a belt-

positioning booster:

(a) In general, a child sitting

in a BPB (backless or high
back) can use the
continuous lap and
shoulder belt in its ELR
mode. Remember that
the BPB is a pre-crash
positioning device that
allows the lap and
shoulder belt to load
forces in the same way it
works on an adult body.

(b) May switch to ALR mode

with “wiggly” child in BPB,
unless otherwise stated in
the CRS manufacturer’s
instructions. (Do not use a
locking clip.)

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 Lesson Plan Notes

9. Systems that need a regular locking

clip.

a. Regular locking clip is a pre-crash

positioning device. It is designed
to hold the CRS in the proper
position during normal driving.

b. During a crash, it is the retractor

that locks the belt and keeps the
CRS in place.

c. A regular locking clip is to be

used only if all three of the
following conditions are met:

(1) Belt system is a continuous

loop lap and shoulder belt.

(2) Belt system has an ELR or

switchable retractor left in the
ELR mode.

(3) Belt system has a latch plate

that does not stay locked with
reasonable pressure applied
at the belt path. This could
be either a sliding latch plate,
a standard/ lightweight
locking latch plate, or a
switchable latch plate that
allows the belt to loosen.

d. Using a regular/standard locking

clip:

(1) Route safety belt through the

correct belt path and buckle.

(2) Push down on CRS while

pulling on shoulder portion to
tighten.

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 Lesson Plan Notes

(3) Grasp and hold together

both portions of webbing
directly behind latch plate
and unbuckle.

(4) Thread locking clip on the

safety belt as close to latch
plate as possible – within 1”.

Note: If locking clip binds against

the lip of the frame or shell of the
CRS and it cannot be moved
closer to the latch plate, move
the clip just far enough away
from the latch plate so that it
rests just inside the frame or shell.

(5) Re-buckle.

Note: Should be difficult to re-

buckle if belt is made tight
enough.

Important: Locking clips must not

be used on the side of the CRS
opposite of the buckle.

Incorrect placement of the

locking clip can lead to excessive
slack in the safety belt in a crash.
This can result in serious injury or
death to the child.

Always remove locking clip when belt is

used for vehicle occupant.

e. Built-in locking clips and lock offs

(1) Substitute way to lock the lap

portion of lap and shoulder
belt with free-sliding latch
plate, a pre-crash positioning
device.

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 Lesson Plan Notes

(2) Easier to use because safety

belt does not need to be
unfastened to secure in lock
off. Some are attached
directly on the CRS shell,
others are attached with a
cord.

(3) Always use according to

manufacturer’s instructions.

(4) A regular locking clip should

only be added if the CRS will
not stay locked in place and
the CRS manufacturer’s
instructions allows it.

10. Systems that need a belt shortening

clip

a. Belt shortening clip must hold the

CRS in the proper position during
normal driving and during the
crash.

b. A regular locking clip may never

be used as a belt shortening clip.

c. A belt shortening clip is only to be

used when:

(1) Lap belt only or the lap belt

portion of lap and shoulder
belt has an ELR and a sewn
latch plate.

(2) Safety belt system has an

extremely long buckle stalk
made of webbing. Using a
belt shortening clip for this
situation should be
considered a short-term
solution.

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 Lesson Plan Notes

Note: Belt shortening clips may be an

option for use in passenger vehicles.
However, on school buses (where buckle
stalks that are too long are common), the
likelihood of misuse poses a greater risk.
Because a better option is available, the
NHTSA CPS School Bus curriculum
recommends never using them on buses
as the best practice. Although there is no
technical reason that belt shortening clips
cannot be used on buses if correctly
installed by trained individuals, best
practice is to retrofit the bus seats with
new belts that have shorter buckle stalks
(a fairly inexpensive job).

d. Using a belt shortening clip.

(1) If using the front seat, put

vehicle seat all the way back
on its track.

(2) Route the belt through the

correct belt path and buckle.

(3) Push down on the CRS and

pull the webbing completely
out of the retractor.

(4) Make a loop of all the excess,

hold carefully or mark the
loop.

(5) Unbuckle the belt and thread

the clip over both pieces of
webbing. Then double-back
the loop and put the single
piece of webbing closest to
the clip under the second set
of arms on the clip.

Note: The clip may be placed

anywhere on the belt so that it
lies flat, is not close to child’s face
or body, and is convenient for
the installer and CRS belt path. In
HS 366 R5/04 H-22
 Lesson Plan Notes

general, an installer may find that

there is more room to install the
clip on the portion of the belt
nearest the retractor. The clip
should not contact a hard part of
the vehicle or CRS, nor should it
interfere with proper installation
of the CRS.

Note: When installing on the

buckle stalk webbing, the same
loop must be made, which
means the webbing must be very
long (estimated to need at least
9.5 inches) to correctly use a belt
shortening clip.

(6) Then re-buckle and test for

CRS tightness. If not tight
enough, will have to start
over.

Note: Should be difficult to re-

buckle if belt is made tight
enough.

11. Safety belt tightening tools.

a. There are no federal motor

vehicle safety standards, nor are
there any other requirements or
recommended testing
procedures for these devices.

b. These devices may encourage

over-tightening of the belt
systems which could:

(1) Put stress on parts of the CRS.

(2) Interfere with the per-

formance of the vehicle
safety belt system.

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 Lesson Plan Notes

c. Vehicle manufacturers do not

approve of using these devices
on their safety belt systems.

d. CRS manufacturers do not

approve of using these devices
with their products.

E. LATCH Installations

1. Installing a CRS with flexible LATCH

attachments.

a. Locate lower anchor bars in the

vehicle seat.

Note: Most vehicles do not allow rear

center positions to be used with LATCH,
but do accommodate child safety seat
installation with safety belts. Always follow
both the vehicle manufacturer’s and the
CRS manufacturer’s instructions for LATCH
installation.

Reminder: CRS installation with a properly

used safety belt in the center rear seating
position, together with a tether strap
properly anchored, should perform
essentially as well as a CRS installation
with LATCH.

b. Position CRS in appropriate

direction for the child’s size and
age.

c. Lock snap hooks or other

attachments to lower anchors.

Beware of false latching on

vehicle seat cloth.

d. Put weight in CRS and tighten

webbing on both sides if
appropriate.

e. Check for tight installation.

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 Lesson Plan Notes

f. Attach tether strap (if applicable)

to anchor and tighten.

2. Installing a CRS with rigid LATCH

attachments

a. Locate lower anchor bars in

vehicle seat.

b. Position CRS in appropriate

direction for the child’s size and
age.

c. Push rigid attachments onto

lower anchors and check that
both are locked.

d. Adjust if necessary and check for

tight installation.

e. Attach tether strap (if applicable)

to anchor and tighten.

3. Plastic guides or labels for lower

anchors.

a. Some vehicle manufacturers

supply plastic guides to help align
rigid CRS attachments with lower
anchors for easy latching.

b. Labels or position indicators may

also be used for easy location of
lower anchors.

4. LATCH Best Practice

Situation

o If CRS has LATCH attachments

but vehicle has no LATCH
anchors.

o If vehicle has LATCH anchors but

CRS does not have LATCH
attachments.

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 Lesson Plan Notes

o If both CRS and vehicle have

user-ready LATCH hardware but
the system is not used.

o If both the CRS and vehicle have

user-ready LATCH hardware but
no tether is used.

o If LATCH components are used

incorrectly (e.g., only one lower
attachment anchored; LATCH
straps not tightened or only one
tightened; two CRSs attached to
one anchor; etc.).

F. Function, Installation, and Use of

Tether Straps

1. A tether strap is the restraining strap

that is attached near the top and in
the rear of some models of forward-
facing CRSs. A tether reduces the
forward movement and rotation of
the seat. The correct use of a top
tether strap can improve the
performance of any child restraint
device for which a tether is
recommended.

2. A top tether strap can increase

stability and provide a more secure
CRS installation in some situations of
incompatibility between CRS and
vehicle.

3. All passenger vehicles manufactured

on or after 9/1/00 are required to
have user-ready tether anchors.
(Check owner’s manual for location.)

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 Lesson Plan Notes

4. Vehicles manufactured after 1986

either have pre-drilled holes,
“dimples” marking anchor points to
drill, or pre-threaded welded nuts
ready for the anchor bolts.

(From 9/1989 to 9/1999, these

locations must be present and are
identified by the manufacturer for
passenger vehicles manufactured for
sale in Canada, which includes most
vehicles sold in the U.S.)

a. Some vehicles identify

appropriate locations for
anchorage, but the hole must still
be drilled.

b. Some vehicles identify

appropriate locations for
anchorage and provide pre-
drilled holes.

c. Some vehicles identify

appropriate locations for
anchorage and provide a
threaded nut welded
underneath the window shelf or
to the frame. In most cases, the
nuts will have metric threads
while some anchorage brackets
supplied with the safety seats
supply bolts with standard
threads.

d. For any vehicle that is not

supplied with an anchorage
bracket ready for the tether to
be hooked to, contact the
vehicle dealer or manufacturer
to:

(1) Identify the appropriate

location for each seating
position, and

HS 366 R5/04 H-27

 Lesson Plan Notes

(2) Order the anchorage bracket

kit with hardware designed
specifically for that vehicle.

5. Anchorage locations vary by vehicle.

a. For sedans, the installation of the

anchorage bracket is made in
the rear window shelf, directly
behind the safety seat.

b. Anchorage bracket installations

for hatch backs and station
wagons are usually made into or
through the floor of the cargo
area also directly behind the
seating position in which the
safety seat is to be used. Some
vehicles provide anchorage
locations into the ceiling.

c. To anchor seats in pickup trucks

refer to the vehicle owner’s
manual or dealer service
instructions.

6. Key Points to Remember about

Tethers:

a. Parents can install anchors

themselves in many cases.

b. Use vehicle-specific anchorage

kits whenever possible.

c. If no vehicle-specific kit is
available, use the hardware
provided by the CRS
manufacturer. Contact the
vehicle manufacturer for
direction on proper installation.

HS 366 R5/04 H-28

 Lesson Plan Notes

7. Top Tethers: Best Practice

Situation

• If CRS has a tether and the

vehicle has a tether anchor
installed

• If CRS has a tether, but vehicle

has no tether anchor

• If CRS has no tether, but vehicle

has installed anchor

• If neither CRS nor vehicle has

tether hardware

• If both the CRS and vehicle have

user-ready tether hardware but
the tether is not used

• If tether system is used incorrectly

(e.g., strap attached to improper
place in vehicle; tether used rear-
facing if CRS is designed only for
tethering forward-facing; tether
left hanging loose when not in
use; two tethers hooked onto one
anchor, etc.)

8. Rear-facing tethering.

a. There are no U.S. regulations for

rear-facing tethering at this time.
However, rear-facing tethering is
common in Australia, New
Zealand, and Sweden.

b. Currently only one U.S. CRS

manufacturer allows rear-facing
tethering (Britax).

Note: One older model of the

SafeLine Sit ‘n’ Stroll (Model 2240;
production of this model # has been
discontinued) can be tethered rear-
HS 366 R5/04 H-29
 Lesson Plan Notes

facing. Current models and other

older models can not be tethered
rear-facing.

c. Always follow CRS manufacturer’s

instructions.

Note: Never tether a CRS rear-facing

unless allowed by the CRS
manufacturer. Doing so can
negatively effect crash performance
of the CRS.

d. Australian Method

(1) Tethered toward the rear of

the vehicle.

(2) Uses designated tether

anchor for forward-facing
CRS (if that anchor is located
too low below the vehicle
seat back, may not be
appropriate, check
instructions.

(3) Controls forward rotation of

CRS in frontal collision.

(4) Has little effect on side, rear,

or rollover impacts.

e. Swedish Method.

(1) Tethered toward the front of

the vehicle.

(2) Attached to a strong

structural point of the seat
frame in front, the non-
moving track the seat in front
is attached to, or the safety
belt anchor of the seat in
front (an additional CRS
manufacturer – supplied

HS 366 R5/04 H-30

 Lesson Plan Notes

anchor strap may be

needed).

Note: Most vehicle manufacturers

do not address this type of
tethering. Follow the CRS
manufacturer’s instructions and
contact the CRS manufacturer
with any questions.

(3) Controls rebound of CRS in

frontal collision.

(4) Has little effect on side, rear,

or rollover impacts.

(5) Aids with achieving correct

recline angle for
newborns/infants.

HS 366 R5/04 H-31

 Lesson Plan Notes

Correctly Installing CRSs in Vehicles -

Hands-on Exercise #5

HS 366 R5/04 H-32

 Hands-On Exercise #5
Installation of Child Restraint Systems

Name:________________________________________ Date:______________________

Instructions: Install each of the following types of child restraints and complete
requested tasks in any of the available vehicles. Request a Certified Technician
or Technician Instructor to check your work and initial in the space provided.
Tasks and installations may be done in any order. In order to fully benefit from
this experience, you must use a variety of vehicles and belt systems and
complete as many as time allows.

_____ Infant seat with a base _____ Infant seat without a base

_____ Convertible rear-facing _____ With tether attached (if available)

_____ Convertible forward-facing _____ Without tether _____ Using tether

_____ Combination child seat/BPB - install as used with internal harness

_____ Backless BPB (without a shield)

_____ Highback BPB

_____ Booster with a shield

_____ Identify 3 ways to determine the presence of a driver or passenger airbag

_____ Identify the presence of side airbag or knee airbag (if available)

_____ Identify tether location on child restraint

Is tether strap attached? 9 yes 9 no

Is retrofit tether kit available? 9 yes 9 no
_____ Identify tether anchorage point in vehicle

Is anchor installed? 9 yes 9 no

Is retrofit anchorage kit available? 9 yes 9 no
_____ Identify lower anchor attachments on child restraint

_____ Identify lower anchors in vehicle (if available)

_____ Install an infant or convertible child restraint using a regular locking clip

_____ Install an infant or convertible child restraint using a belt shorting clip

_____ LATCH child restraint in LATCH-equipped vehicle

_____ Installation of available special needs CRS (e.g., car beds, vests, etc.)

HS 366 R5/04 H-33

HS 366 R5/04 H-34
 INSTALLATION OF CHILD RESTRAINT SYSTEMS WITH DIFFERENT TYPES OF SAFETY BELTS Revised: October 2003
For Training Purposes Only...Not Intended for Distribution to General Public
Note: Vehicles manufactured on or after September 1, 1995 (1996 model year) must be equipped with belt systems that secure safety seats
without the need for locking clips or other additional hardware. Check owner’s manual, as well as checking lap and shoulder belts for
switchable ALR/ELR retractors, lightweight locking latch plates, or switchable latch plates on late model vehicles. Newer systems introduced
in response to this requirement are indicated by a “**”
TYPE OF BELT CHARACTERISTICS / HOW TO LOCK COMMENTS ON USE WITH CHILD SAFETY SEATS (CSS)
LAP BELT ONLY
Manually Adjusting Insert latch plate in buckle and pull on free Generally easy to use. Latch plate must be at correct angle to stay locked. If belt
end to tighten. Belt stays locked as long as belt will not stay tight when pulled on: 1) flip latch plate upside down before buckling, or
webbing and latch plate are parallel. Tilt latch 2) Shorten buckle end of belt by twisting belt webbing as much as needed to
plate to release webbing to loosen. correct the latch plate angle.
Automatic Locking Pull belt from retractor, will automatically lock Easy to use. Push safety seat into vehicle seat while pushing belt back into retractor.
Retractor (ALR) after retracting about a quarter inch. Remains Belt will automatically stay locked.
locked and cannot lengthen belt until belt
rewinds completely.
Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR) Belt moves freely in and out of the retractor during normal driving. Locks only when the vehicle or occupant moves very
suddenly. Types of ELR’s include:
Belt Sensitive ELR Belt locks when there is sudden movement of
the belt itself. May be confused with ALR unless
belt is pulled very gently out of the retractor. DO NOT USE AS IS. Will not stay locked. Solutions: 1) Use another position, 2) Replace
After pulling on belt, allow it to rewind then with manually adjusting belt for long term use, 3) Use belt-shortening locking clip
gently pull on belt again to see if it locks. from Ford or Toyota or other vehicle manufacturer to shorten belt enough to stay
tight around seat when fully extended. May need more than one clip. Difficult and
Vehicle Sensitive Belt locks only if there is sudden movement of inconvenient to use.
ELR the vehicle. Belt will not lock even with sharp
pulls on the webbing.
Switchable ELR/ALR Works as ELR for use by adults. Converts to ALR Easy to use. Be sure belt locks in ALR mode. Most switch when belt is fully extended
Combination for use with CSS. Converts back to ELR for use to engage the ALR. Other types convert by flipping a switch on the retractor (check
Retractor by adults and larger children. owner’s manual). Route belt through CSS and buckle, switch retractor to ALR and
use like ALR above.
LAP AND SHOULDER BELT COMBINATIONS
Separate Lap and Most often found on older cars. Lap and May or may not be able to use. Ignore shoulder belt and determine what type of
Shoulder Belts shoulder belts are two different belts with lap belt is present. Can be used with safety seat if lap belt is not ELR.
separate buckles or latch plates interlock
before buckling.
HS 366 R5/04 H-35
 INSTALLATION OF CHILD RESTRAINT SYSTEMS WITH DIFFERENT TYPES OF SAFETY BELTS Revised: October 2003
For Training Purposes Only...Not Intended for Distribution to General Public
TYPE OF BELT CHARACTERISTICS / HOW TO LOCK COMMENTS ON USE WITH CHILD SAFETY SEATS (CSS)
Sewn (Fixed) Latch Lap and shoulder portions each have their May or may not be able to use. Ignore shoulder portion. May be used if lap belt is
plate own retractors with each belt sewn onto latch ALR or switchable ELR/ALR. If lap belt appears to be ELR, check to see if it will
plate. convert to ALR.**
Continuous Loop Lap/ Shoulder Belts One piece of webbing passes through a latch plate to form both the lap and shoulder portions of the belt. Generally, the
lap belt portion is fixed to the vehicle [is not on a retractor]. The length of the belt is controlled by the shoulder belt retractor. Types of latch plates found on
continuous loop belts include:
Locking Latch plate Belt webbing is threaded through and around Generally good to use with seat. Thread lap belt through belt routing location
a locking bar in the latch plate that holds lap (shoulder portion will follow lap belt), then pull on shoulder belt to tighten. Check to
portion tight when lap belt is parallel to latch see that lap belt does not loosen due to improper angle of latch plate. If belt will not
plate. stay tight when pulled on: 1) flip latch plate upside down before buckling, 2)
shorten buckle end of belt by twisting belt webbing as much as needed to correct
the latch plate angle, or 3) use locking clip.
Lightweight Locking Latch plate slides freely along webbing unless May or may not work well “as is” with safety seats. Route belt through correct path,
Latch plate ** belt is buckled and webbing pulls tightly buckle and tighten. Pull on seat to see if locking mechanism holds the belt tight. If
enough to engage latch plate locking belt loosens: 1)Flip latch plate upside down before buckling, 2) shorten buckle end
mechanism. Latch plate may only “cinch” of belt by twisting belt webbing, or 3) use locking clip.
rather than lock and release when enough
pressure is applied.
Free-Sliding Latch Belt webbing threaded through slot in latch LOCKING CLIP MUST BE USED TO KEEP LAP BELT TIGHT. Regular locking or belt
plate with ELR plate. Webbing can be pulled back and forth shortening clip can be used. Route belt through correct path, buckle and tighten.
Retractor through latch plate after being buckled. Grasp and hold both portions of webbing directly behind latch plate & unbuckle.
Allows lap portion to loosen after seat is Thread locking clip on belt as close to latch plate as possible (within 1 inch) & re-
buckled in. buckle. Should be difficult to re-buckle if belt is made tight enough.
Free-Sliding Latch Works as ELR for use by adults. Converts to ALR Easy to use. Be sure belt locks in ALR mode. Most switch when belt is fully extended
plate with for installing CSS. to engage the ALR. Other types convert by flipping a switch on the retractor (check
Switchable ELR/ALR owner’s manual). Belt will automatically stay locked. Route belt through CSS and
Retractor ** buckle, switch retractor to ALR, push safety seat into vehicle seat while pushing belt
back into retractor. NOTE: May need to use locking clip if tension on shoulder belt
pulls too hard and tilts the CSS to the degree that it is pulled off of the cushion on
one side.
Switchable Latch Switch on latch plate converts it from a free- Follow vehicle owner’s manual for switching latch plate from free-sliding to locking.
plate ** sliding to a locking latch plate. Follow “Comments On Use” for “Lap Belt Only Locking Latch plate” above.
HS 366 R5/04 H-36
 INSTALLATION OF CHILD RESTRAINT SYSTEMS WITH DIFFERENT TYPES OF SAFETY BELTS Revised: October 2003
For Training Purposes Only...Not Intended for Distribution to General Public
TYPE OF BELT CHARACTERISTICS / HOW TO LOCK COMMENTS ON USE WITH CHILD SAFETY SEATS (CSS)
AUTOMATIC RESTRAINTS
Automatic Shoulder Shoulder belt is fixed to the door. Belt closes CAN NOT BE USED TO INSTALL CSS. No lap belt is provided. Must be installed in rear
Belt over occupant when door is closed. No lap seat.
with Knee Bolster belt is provided. Knee bolster (padded lower
dashboard) stops forward movement.
Automatic Shoulder Shoulder belt is fixed to the door or on a MAY NOT BE ABLE TO USE AS IS. Shoulder belt must be disconnected. Majority of lap
Belt motorized track above door frame. Belt closes belts are on an emergency locking retractor. Check owner’s manual for model
with Manual Lap over occupant when door is closed or ignition specific information. If lap belt is ELR: 1) Install safety seat in rear seat, 2) Check to
Belt is turned on. Lap belt must also be used, but see if auxiliary locking lap belt is available from dealer, or 3) Use belt shortening clip.
must be fastened manually.
Automatic Lap and Lap and shoulder belts are both on retractors DO NOT USE AS IS. Lap belt cannot be threaded through safety seat with door open
Shoulder Belt inside door. Occupant slides under belts when plus the lap belts are on emergency locking retractors. Options are to: 1) Install
getting in and both belts close over occupant safety seat in rear seat, or 2) Have auxiliary lap belt designed for use with CSS
when door is closed. Primarily on General installed by dealer (free part and service for GM vehicles through local dealers).
Motors vehicles.
Air Bags Inflates instantly in frontal crashes over 12-15 DO NOT INSTALL REAR-FACING SEATS IN AN AIR BAG EQUIPPED POSITION. MUST USE
(Supplemental mph. Positions covered by air bags have REAR SEAT FOR CHILD UNDER 20 LBS. AND LESS THAN A YEAR OLD. INSTALL FRONT-
Restraint Systems) manual lap and shoulder belts. Owners can FACING SEATS IN AN AIR BAG POSITION ONLY IF ABSOLUTELY NECESSARY. For front-
petition NHTSA to receive permission for a facing seats, check owner’s manual for recommendations for specific vehicles. May
dealer to install an on/off switch. Petitions be allowed by vehicle manufacturer for front-facing safety seat, but use with
generally granted only when use of front seat extreme caution and move the vehicle seat back as far as possible. Air bag
absolutely necessary equipped vehicles have manual belts. If installation of safety seat is allowed, refer to
“Lap and shoulder Belt Combinations” section above for comments on use.
**Newer systems introduced in response to 1996 lockability requirement
NHTSA Standardized Child Passenger Safety Training - Prepared by UNC Highway Safety Research Center, CB #3430, Chapel Hill, NC 27599 919-962-2202 or 800-672-4527 (in NC)
HS 366 R5/04 H-37
HS 366 R5/04 H-38
 CORRECT INSTALLATION OF CHILD
RESTRAINT SYSTEMS

Module Review

1. What steps must be taken to correctly install a rear-facing infant restraint?

2. What steps must be taken to correctly install a forward-only facing child

restraint system?

3. What steps must be taken to correctly install a convertible child restraint

system?

4. What steps must be taken to correctly install a car bed?

5. What steps must be taken to correctly install a booster seat?

6. What steps should you take to determine whether or not a child restraint
system is installed correctly?

7. What factors contribute to incorrect installation of a child restraint system?

8. What do you need to teach parents/caregivers about installing child

restraint systems in vehicle positions that have air bags?

9. What factors should you consider when selecting the best seating position
for the child restraint system?

10. How do you find the correct belt path?

11. How tightly should a child restraint system be installed?

12. How can you determine if a child restraint system is installed securely?

13. What strategies can you use to obtain a tight installation of the child
restraint system?

14. What are the differences among automatic locking retractors, emergency
locking retractors, and switchable retractors?

HS 366 R5/04 H-39

15. Explain the two types of emergency locking retractors.

16. What is a locking latch plate?

17. What problem occurs when using a free-sliding latch plate with an
emergency locking retractor?

18. What can be done to correct the problem?

19. What is the purpose(s) of a locking clip?

20. What is the correct placement of a locking clip?

21. How does an ELR/ALR switch from one mode to the other?

22. How is a lap belt with an ELR shortened?

23. What are the differences between a locking clip and a belt shortening clip?

24. Can a belt shortening clip be substituted for a locking clip?

25. Can a locking clip be substituted for a belt shortening clip?

26. What are the components of LATCH system?

27. How is a tether strap used?

28. What should you do if the vehicle doesn’t have an anchor bracket for a
tether strap?

29. What steps must be taken to correctly install a child restraint system with
LATCH?

30. When installing a child restraint system in the center rear seating position,
when is it appropriate for LATCH to be used?

HS 366 R5/04 H-40

Instructor(s) Name(s) ______________________________________________________________________

STANDARDIZED CPS TRAINING Correct Installation of Child Restraint Systems

MODULE ANALYSIS Date:
Please do not feel bound to limit your remarks to questions on this form. Your pertinent
comments on any aspect of the course will be appreciated.

1. The module objectives were accomplished. (Check the response closest to your opinion)
Strongly Neither Agree Strongly
Module objectives: Agree
Agree
or Disagree
Disagree
Disagree
N/A

# Explain the procedure for correct

installation of a child restraint.

# Demonstrate correct installation of a

child restraint.

# Determine incorrect installation of a

child restraint.

# Propose strategies to improve

installation of a child restraint.

# Teach parents/caregivers how to

correctly install a child restraint in their
vehicle.

# Explain uses and limitations of

instruction related to child restraints
and vehicles.

# Describe the function of a tether

strap.

# Describe air bag risks to children.

# Propose strategies to limit air bag

injuries to children.

2. The information presented will help

with my efforts.

3. Time in class was spent effectively.

4. Instructor(s) made session a

worthwhile learning experience.

HS 366 R5/04 H-41

5. What information would you add, delete, or change in emphasis on this subject?

6. Other comments:

HS 366 R5/04 H-42

 Frequently Asked Questions About LATCH*
Can new LATCH equipped child
restraints still be used in older
model vehicles without LATCH?
Can two CR lower attachments
be installed on a single vehicle
lower anchor?
Is installation with the LATCH
anchors always better than with
the safety belt?
Can the two inner LATCH anchors
from the outboard seating
positions be used to install a
LATCH-equipped child restraint in
the center seat?
HS 366 R5/04
Yes. New child restraints are required to have both
safety belt and LATCH options for installation in the
vehicle. If the vehicle does not have upper (tether)
anchors, it is beneficial to have them installed so
that the child restraint can be tethered.
No, attaching two child restraints to a single lower
anchor point could cause the anchor to fail in a
crash.
Not always. If a tight anchorage can be obtained
with the safety belt, then there is no need to use
LATCH. For example, with only one child in the rear
seat, placing the child restraint in the center rear
securely installed with a tight safety belt – and
tether, if available for the CR – would be very
protective.
Unless a vehicle has a set of LATCH anchors
specifically for the center position, the safety belt in
that position should be used in most cases.
In some vehicles, the inner anchors for the outboard
positions will be spaced too far apart to be used as
anchors. There is some concern that widely spaced
anchors may create forces on some flexible CR
attachments that could affect the integrity of the
system. If anchors were spaced too close together,
access would be very difficult and restraint might
be less effective.
Some vehicle instructions specifically state that the
center rear seating position should not be used to
anchor a child restraint using the LATCH lower
anchors. Other vehicle owner’s manuals may
indicate, however, that LATCH-equipped child
restraints with webbing-mounted (flexible)
attachments can be used with inboard anchors
spaced from 280 mm (11 inches) to 500 mm (19.7
inches) apart. Child restraint manufacturers may
specify the minimum and maximum vehicle anchor
spacing appropriate for installation of their LATCH-
CRs; however, some do not specify.
NOTE: Use of the inboard LATCH anchors would
mean that no LATCH restraints could be installed in
the outboard seating positions.
H-43

Can vehicles be retrofitted with
lower LATCH anchors?
Can child restraints be retrofitted
with flexible lower LATCH
attachments?
Does it matter in which direction
the child restraint tether hook is
attached to the vehicle tether
anchor?
How can I achieve the 45 degree
recline angle with a rear-facing
LATCH child restraint?
Should the LATCH system be used
to attach a combination child
restraint/ belt-positioning booster
(BPB) when it is being used as a
BPB?
HS 366 R5/04
Child restraints with rigid attachment systems will fit
only with the standard (280 mm or 11 inches)
spacing. Therefore, it is unlikely that such CRs would
fit in the center position of vehicles unless a
separate set of LATCH anchors had been installed
there or the distance between the two inboard bars
is also 280 mm.
Currently, only certain VW models (1999-2001) can
have lower anchors retrofitted into rear outboard
seating positions. These vehicles were designed
with this in mind. VW provides a kit for this purpose.
Also, Audi reports that a retrofit kit may be
forthcoming for 1999-2001 models.
Several child restraint manufacturers provide flexible
lower attachment kits that can be used in the belt
paths of certain older model child restraints.
Yes, in some cases the vehicle owner’s manual
specifies the exact direction the tether hook must
be attached (e.g., Ford Windstar). A one-half twist
(180 degrees) in the tether strap may be permissible
if necessary to position the hook correctly. Always
check for specific child restraint and vehicle
instructions prior to installation.
CRs with flexible LATCH attachments can have their
angle adjusted in the same way as with CRs
installed with a safety belt (using rolled towels or
“noodles”). Rigid LATCH seats, when available, will
not be adjustable that way. New designs will have
to consider the angle.
Remember that the recline 45 degree angle is a
MAXIMUM, and necessary only during the first few
months, until the baby’s neck strength is developed
enough to hold the head up.
LATCH is for CRs that have harnesses or
harness/shields to restrain the child. Belt-positioning
boosters do not have harnesses, so they are not,
strictly speaking, child restraints. The safety belts
that hold the child in place are the actual restraint
system. The BPB positions the child so the lap and
shoulder belts fit the child better.
H-44

Must LATCH anchors be replaced
after use in a crash?
Is it ever appropriate to install a
CR using both the LATCH anchors
and the safety belt?
*Adapted with permission from SRN Publications, “Tethering Child Restraints Including
LATCH,” Spring 2001 edition.
HS 366 R5/04
When a combination CR/BPB with a tether or
complete LATCH system is used with its harness, use
of the tether and lower LATCH anchors are
appropriate. When this type of restraint is used as a
BPB, however, there are questions as to whether to
use tether straps and/or lower anchors to hold the
device in place in the vehicle.
This issue is currently under discussion. Testing is
being done by vehicle and child restraint
manufacturers as well as regulators. The best
practice recommendation at this time is to follow
the CR instructions, if they deal with the issue at all.
Some CR manufacturers suggest using the tether,
while others advise against it.
The use of lower LATCH anchors on a BPB raises
larger questions than the use of the tether. The
concern is the effect of a firmly anchored booster
base on the occupant, who will slide forward
somewhat while being restrained by the lap and
shoulder belt. This motion might cause submarining
and potential injury. This concern should not apply
to vehicles with built-in BPBs, which are designed
specifically to provide effective restraint in those
particular vehicles.
Vehicle owners should tell insurance adjusters and
collision repair shops if LATCH anchors were in use
during a crash. If so, the anchors should be
inspected for damage. In a severe crash, the
anchors may become bent, in which case they
must be replaced.
This repair should be a normal aspect of repairing
the vehicle. Service manuals should include
information on how to repair or replace them. In
some cases, this is only a matter of bolting a new
part into place. In others, an entire seat must be
replaced, which will cost more.
The two systems duplicate the same function. It
should be unnecessary to use both. The system that
provides the tightest, most secure installation for the
CR should be used. In a few cases, this may be the
safety belt, rather than the LATCH anchors.
H-45
HS 366 R5/04 H-46
 Frequently Asked Questions About Using Tethers*
If a child restraint comes with a All U.S. forward-facing child restraints made since Sept.
standard tether, must the
tether always be used?
Can a tether strap kit made for
one restraint be used on a
different restraint?
Can two tethers be hooked to
the same anchor?
Is it possible to tighten a tether
strap too much?
HS 366 R5/04
1, 1999, must meet a stringent federal require-ment
which allows approximately 4 inches less head
excursion than previously. Most CRs use a tether in
order to meet this requirement. A CR with a tether
must also meet the previously required test without the
tether. In Canada, forward-facing CRs have been
required to meet the stricter head excursion criteria for
many years (Appendix B - “Tethering Child Restraints,
Spring 2001 edition).
Best practice is to always use a tether if it is avail-able
for a forward-facing CR, because less head excur-sion
means less risk of injury. However, installation with a
safety belt alone will provide a fairly good level of
protection, if the safety belt holds the CR in place
tightly.
No, the kits are not interchangeable. Even if parts look
the same, it is best practice to always use the parts
supplied by the manufacturer for its own products.
No. Each tether must have its own anchor. The tether
anchor is intended to withstand potential crash forces
of just one child restraint in a crash.
A tether strap on a forward-facing CR cannot be
tightened too much. It should be as snug as possible,
without excessive force being applied. Compressing
the vehicle seat padding will reduce motion in a
crash. However, if helping a consumer install a CR in
their vehicle, be careful not to tighten the safety belt
and tether enough to damage the upholstery. A
Canadian study found that even a slightly loose tether
was better than no tether in all tested cases, although
a tighter tether is certainly preferable.
Harness straps of some CRs can get pinched and be
very difficult to adjust when the CR has been very
tightly installed and tethered. If necessary, loosen the
tether strap to adjust the harness straps, then retighten
the tether strap. If the restraint has straps on a
retractor or the harness straps must be adjusted
frequently, the tether strap could be adjusted slightly
less tightly.
H-47

Can a tether cause neck
injury?
Can a tether cause injury to
other passengers in the
vehicle?
Where is the tether stowed
when it is not being used?
HS 366 R5/04
For rear-facing tethers, tightening is slightly different.
The angle at which the baby reclines is an important
factor. An infant needs a reclined seat because his or
her head control is poor. If the CR is tethered toward
the rear of the vehicle (TRV) remove the slack but do
not pull the seat too upright.
If a rear-facing CR is tethered below and forward
(toward front of vehicle - TFV), the tether should be
tight. However, it should not pull the CR down to
farther than 45 degrees from the vertical. Too much of
a recline angle could cause the child to slide out head
first in a serious crash.
There have been no known instances of neck injury
related to the use of a tether. In fact, the study cited
in the question above showed that all measurements
relating to potential neck injury were lower with a
tether than without it. This is because the tether
secures the CR – and the child – more tightly to the
vehicle, allowing the child’s body to “ride down” the
crash with the vehicle as it crushes and absorbs crash
energy. Without a tether there may be more potential
of higher forces on the neck when the CR suddenly
stops moving forward.
There are no known cases of this. It is possible,
however, that a loose, unsecured tether could injure
the child or another passenger. Unused tethers should
always be stored securely (or removed if the
manufacturer so directs).
For convertible seats with tethers for forward-facing
use only, the tether must be stowed or stored for the
rear-facing position. If the manufacturer recommends
removing the tether when it is not in use, it is import-ant
to replace the tether correctly when needed later.
Some CRs have a special location to store the tether
strap. For restraints without this feature, the tether strap
should be tied up close to the restraint when not in
use. One CR has a plastic storage clip on which the
tether strap can be hooked. In this case, make sure
the strap is adjusted to its shortest length before
attaching it. If not, the tether hardware would be left
dangling loosely. In rare cases, heavy anchor
hardware comes attached to the tether strap.
Remove any anchor hardware before storing the strap
on the restraint.
H-48
Can tether anchors be used to
attach safety belts or harness
systems for adults or larger
children?
Should a tether anchor be
replaced after a crash?
*Adapted with permission from SRN Publications, “Tethering Child Restraints Including
LATCH,” Spring 2001 edition.
HS 366 R5/04
No, vehicle upper (tether) anchors and the lower
anchors are designed and tested to withstand only
those loads imposed by restraints for children weighing
up to about 50-60 pounds. See current LATCH Manual
for information (available from Safe Ride News
Publications).
The tether anchor should be examined for damage
after it has been used in a crash, as with any other part
of the vehicle. Be sure to inform the insurance adjuster
and collision repair shop that they need to check the
anchor. If it is bent or the sheet metal into which it is
installed has been damaged, it should be replaced. In
many cases, if the tether anchor is damaged, other
parts of the vehicle will also have suffered
considerable damage. The entire vehicle may be
totaled.
H-49
HS 366 R5/04 H-50