Australian Off Road Racing Association (AORRA) safety review update

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Off Road Racing Automobiles General Requirements – GRO
Safety review
20. Emergency Equipment
20.1. Each automobile shall carry the following equipment
• A reflective warning triangle of side length 200mm
• A water resistant OK/SOS sign of area not less than 580 cm2
• A proprietary automobile tow rope of at least 5m length
• A proprietary device for each occupant designed to cut safety harnesses in the event of an incident.
• A weatherproof Off Road First Aid kit, as supplied by St John Ambulance Australia, or equivalent.
20.2. Emergency equipment shall be securely mounted and reasonably protected from exposure to dust and water.
A Safety review has been conducted after several incidents involving the inability for occupants to exit their vehicles in emergency situations. This was due to seat belts being unable to be released, both buckle and lever latch systems.
This highlights the need for correct fitment and service (cleaning) of belts. In the environment that we as off-road racers enjoy, there is always the risk of belts jamming as many of us have experienced. Seat belt cutters have a greater part to play in our sport due to the environment we are in, therefore constant review of them has noted some failings of our current requirements, e.g. fitment, positioning, type, life expectancy and quality.
Because of these findings, AORRA along with AASA are now advising that all competitors must have a minimum of two (2) working seat belt cutters located in their vehicles in a position that is highly visible and easily accessible by occupants (whilst belted in and wearing gloves) and any person outside of the vehicle. They must also be in a position where they are unlikely to be dislodged in the event of an accident.
Scrutineering staff will be checking that all vehicles comply.
In addition, it is also recommended that all clubs hand out a seat belt cutter with track officials and recovery vests.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_btn title=”VIEW PDF” color=”green” link=”||target:%20_blank|”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][/vc_column][/vc_row]