Interpretation ID: nht71-3.1

DATE: 05/14/71

FROM: AUTHOR UNAVAILABLE; Douglas W. Toms; NHTSA

TO: Mrs. Barbara G. Rothschild

TITLE: FMVSS INTERPRETATION

TEXT: This is in reply to your letter of April 28, 1971, in which you asked whether modifications to a "forced-action" belt could make it into a system that would satisfy the passive restraint requirements of Standard No. 208. Although we cannot at this time comment on the changes to which you refer, a passive belt system can be used to satisfy the requirement that protection be provided by means that require no action by vehicle occupants.

As you requested, we have enclosed copies of the Standard as published March 10, 1971.