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 17 of the Economic Commission for Europe of the United Nations (UN/ECE) — Uniform provisions concerning the approval of vehicles with regard to the seats, their anchorages and any head restraints 2019/1723

Incorporating all valid text up to:

09 series of amendments — Date of entry into force: 28 May 2019

CONTENTS

REGULATION

1. Scope

2. Definitions

3. Application for approval

4. Approval

5. Requirements

6. Tests

7. Conformity of production

8. Penalties for non-conformity of production

9. Modifications of the vehicle type and extension of approval with respect to the seats, their anchorages and/or their head restraints

10. Production definitively discontinued

11. Instruction for use

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

13. Transitional provisions

ANNEXES

1. Communication

2. Arrangements of the approval mark

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

4. Determination of the height and width of head restraints

5. Details of lines and measurements taken during tests

6. Test procedure for checking energy dissipation

7. Method for testing the strength of seat anchorages and their adjustment, locking and displacement systems

8. Determination of dimension ‘a’ of head restraint gaps

9. Test procedure for devices intended to protect the occupants against displacement of luggage

1. SCOPE

This Regulation applies to:

(a) Vehicles of categories M1 and N (1) with regard to the strength of seats and their anchorages and with regard to their head restraints;

(b) Vehicles of categories M2 and M3 (1) with regard to seats not covered by Regulation No 80, in respect of the strength of seats and their anchorages, and in respect of their head restraints;

(c) Vehicles of category M1 with regard to the design of the rear parts of seat backs and the design of devices intended to protect the occupants from the danger resulting from the displacement of luggage in a frontal impact.

It does not apply to vehicles with regard to side-facing or rearward-facing seats, or to any head restraint fitted to these seats.

2. DEFINITIONS

For the purposes of this Regulation,

2.1. ‘Approval of a vehicle’ means the approval of a vehicle type with regard to the strength of the seats and their anchorages, the design of the rear parts of the seat-backs and the characteristics of their head restraints;

2.2. ‘Vehicle type’ means a category of motor vehicles which do not differ in such essential respects as:

2.2.1. The structure, shape, dimensions, materials and the mass of the seats, although the seats may differ in covering and colour; differences not exceeding 5 per cent in the mass of the approved seat type shall not be considered significant;

2.2.2. The type and dimensions of the adjustment, displacement and locking systems of the seat-back and seats and their parts;

2.2.3. The type and dimensions of the seat anchorages;

2.2.4. The dimensions, frame, materials and padding of head restraints, although they may differ in colour and covering;

2.2.5. The type and dimensions of the attachments of the head restraint and the characteristics of the part of the vehicle to which the head restraint is attached, in the case of a separate head restraint;

2.3. ‘Seat’ means a structure which may or may not be integral with the vehicle structure complete with trim, intended to seat one person. Depending on its orientation, a seat is defined as follows:

2.3.1. ‘Forward-facing seat’ means a seat which can be used whilst 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;

2.3.2. ‘Rearward-facing seat’ means a seat which can be used whilst 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;

2.3.3. ‘Side-facing seat’ means a seat which can be used whilst 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;

2.4. ‘Bench seat’ means a structure complete with trim, intended to seat more than one adult person;

2.5. ‘Anchorage’ means the system by which the seat assembly is secured to the vehicle structure, including the affected parts of the vehicle structure;

2.6. ‘Adjustment system’ means the 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:

2.6.1. Longitudinal displacement;

2.6.2. Vertical displacement;

2.6.3. Angular displacement;

2.7. ‘Displacement system’ means a device by which the seat or one of its parts can be displaced and/or rotated, without a fixed intermediate position, to permit easy access of occupants to the space behind the seat concerned;

2.8. ‘Locking system’ means a device ensuring that the seat and its parts are maintained in the position of use;

2.9. ‘Folding seat’ means a seat, which is normally folded, can be easily operated and is designed for occasional use by an occupant;

2.10. ‘Transverse plane’ means a vertical plane perpendicular to the median longitudinal plane of the vehicle;

2.11. ‘Longitudinal plane’ means a plane parallel to the median longitudinal plane of the vehicle;

2.12. ‘Head restraint’ means a device whose purpose is to limit the rearward displacement of an adult occupant’s head in relation to his torso in order to reduce the danger of injury to the cervical vertebrae in the event of an accident;

2.12.1. ‘Integrated head restraint’ means a head restraint formed by the upper part of the seat-back. Head restraints meeting the definitions of paragraphs 2.12.2 or 2.12.3 below but which can only be detached from the seat or the vehicle structure by the use of tools or by partial or complete removal of the seat covering, meet the present definition;

2.12.2. ‘Detachable head restraint’ means a head restraint consisting of a component separable from the seat designed for insertion and positive retention in the seat-back structure;

2.12.3. ‘Separate head restraint’ means a head restraint consisting of a component separate from the seat, designed for insertion and/or positive retention in the structure of the vehicle;

2.13. ‘R point’ means the seating reference point as defined in Annex 3, Appendix 3 to this Regulation;

2.14. ‘Reference line’ means the line on the manikin reproduced in Annex 3, Appendix 1, Figure 1, to this Regulation.

2.15. ‘Partitioning system’ means parts or devices which, in addition to the seat-backs, are intended to protect the occupants from displaced luggage; in particular, a partitioning system may be constituted by netting or wire mesh located above the level of the seat-backs in their upright or folded down position. Head restraints fitted as standard equipment for vehicles equipped with such parts or devices shall be considered as part of the partitioning system. However, a seat equipped with a head restraint shall not be considered as being on its own a partitioning system.

3. APPLICATION FOR APPROVAL

3.1. The application for approval of a vehicle type shall be submitted by the vehicle manufacturer or by his duly accredited representative.

3.2. It shall be accompanied by the following documents in triplicate and the following particulars:

3.2.1. A detailed description of the vehicle type with regard to the design of the seats, their anchorages, and their adjustment, displacement and locking systems;

3.2.1.1. A detailed description and/or drawings of the partitioning system, if applicable.

3.2.2. Drawings, on an appropriate scale and in sufficient detail, of the seats, their anchorages on the vehicle, and their adjustment, displacement and locking systems.

3.2.3. In the case of a seat with a detachable head restraint:

3.2.3.1. A detailed description of the head restraint, specifying in particular the nature of the padding material or materials;

3.2.3.2. A detailed description of the location, the type of support and the attachments for mounting the head restraint on the seat.

3.2.4. In the case of a separate head restraint:

3.2.4.1. A detailed description of the head restraint, specifying in particular the nature of the padding material or materials;

3.2.4.2. A detailed description of the location, and the attachments for fitting the head restraint to the structure of the vehicle.

3.3. The following shall be submitted to the Technical Service responsible for the approval tests:

3.3.1. A vehicle representative of the vehicle type to be approved or the parts of the vehicle which the Technical Service deems necessary for approval tests;

3.3.2. An additional set of the seats with which the vehicle is equipped, with their anchorages.

3.3.3. For vehicles with seats fitted or capable of being fitted with head restraints, in addition to the requirements set out in paragraphs 3.3.1 and 3.3.2 above:

3.3.3.1. In the case of detachable head restraints: an additional set of seats, fitted with head restraints, with which the vehicle is equipped, together with their anchorages.

3.3.3.2. In the case of separate head restraints: an additional set of the seats with which the vehicle is equipped, with their anchorages, an additional set of the corresponding head restraints and the part of the vehicle structure to which the head restraint in fitted, or a complete structure.

4. APPROVAL

4.1. If the vehicle submitted for approval pursuant to this Regulation meets the relevant requirements (seats fitted with head restraints or capable of being fitted with head restraints), approval of the vehicle type shall be granted.

4.2. An approval number shall be assigned to each type approved. Its first two digits (at present 09, corresponding to the 09 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 either to the same vehicle type equipped with other types of seats or head restraints or with seats anchored differently on the vehicle (this applies both to seats with and to those without head restraints) or to another vehicle type.

4.3. Notice of approval or extension or refusal of approval of a vehicle type pursuant to this Regulation shall be communicated to the Parties to the Agreement applying this Regulation by means of a form conforming to the model in Annex 1 to this Regulation.

4.4. 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:

4.4.1. A circle surrounding the letter ‘E’ followed by the distinguishing number of the country which has granted approval (2);

4.4.2. 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 4.4.1 above.

4.4.3. However, if the vehicle is equipped with one or more seats fitted or capable of being fitted with head restraints, approved as meeting the requirements under paragraphs 5.1 and 5.2 below, the number of this Regulation shall be followed by the letters ‘RA’. The form conforming to the model in Annex 1 to this Regulation shall indicate which seat(s) of the vehicle is (are) fitted or capable of being fitted with head restraints. The marking shall also indicate that any remaining seats in the vehicle, not fitted or capable of being fitted with head restraints, are approved and meet the requirements of paragraph 5.1 below of this Regulation.

4.5. 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 4.4.1 above need not be repeated; in such a case the Regulation and approval numbers and the additional 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 4.4.1 above.

4.6. The approval mark shall be clearly legible and be indelible.

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

4.8. Examples of arrangements of approval marks are given in Annex 2 to this Regulation.

5. REQUIREMENTS

5.1. General requirements

5.1.1. The installation of side-facing seats shall be prohibited in vehicles of categories M1, N1, M2 (of class II, III and B) and M3 of a technically permissible laden mass not exceeding 10 tonnes (of class II, III and B).

5.1.2. It does not apply to ambulances or to vehicles intended for use by the armed services, civil defence, fire services and forces responsible for maintaining public order.

5.2. General requirements applicable to all seats of vehicles of category M1 (3)

5.2.1. Every adjustment and displacement system provided shall incorporate a locking system, which shall operate automatically.

Locking systems for armrests or other comfort devices are not necessary unless the presence of such devices will cause additional risk of injury to the occupants of a vehicle in the event of a collision.

Folding seats shall lock automatically in the position of use by occupants.

5.2.2. The unlocking control for a device as referred to in paragraph 2.7 of this Regulation shall be placed on the outside of the seat close to the door. It shall be easily accessible, even to the occupant of the seat immediately behind the seat concerned.

5.2.3. The rear parts of seats situated in area 1, defined in paragraph 6.8.1.1 below shall pass the energy dissipation test in accordance with the requirements of Annex 6 to this Regulation.

5.2.3.1. This requirement is deemed to be met if in the tests carried out by the procedure specified in Annex 6 to this Regulation the deceleration of the headform does not exceed 80 g continuously for more than 3 ms. Moreover, no dangerous edge shall occur during or remain after the test.

5.2.3.2. The requirements of paragraph 5.2.3 shall not apply to rearmost seats, to back-to-back seats or to seats that comply with the provisions of Regulation No 21 ‘Uniform Provisions concerning the Approval of Vehicles with regard to their Interior Fittings’ (E/ECE/324-E/ECE/TRANS/505/Rev.1/Add.20/Rev.2, as last amended).

5.2.4. The surface of the rear parts of seats shall exhibit no dangerous roughness or sharp edges likely to increase the risk of severity of injury to the occupants. This requirement is considered as satisfied if the surface of the rear parts of seats tested in the conditions specified in paragraph 6.1 below exhibit radii of curvature not less than:

2,5 mm in area 1,

5,0 mm in area 2,

3,2 mm in area 3.

These areas are defined in paragraph 6.8.1 below.

5.2.4.1. This requirement does not apply to:

5.2.4.1.1. the parts of the different areas exhibiting a projection of less than 3,2 mm from the surrounding surface, which shall exhibit blunted edges, provided that the height of the projection is not more than half its width;

5.2.4.1.2. Rearmost seats, to back-to-back seats or to seats that comply with the provisions of Regulation No 21 ‘Uniform Provisions concerning the Approval of Vehicles with regard to their Interior Fittings’ (E/ECE/324-E/ECE/TRANS/505/Rev.1/Add.20/Rev.2, as last amended);

5.2.4.1.3. Rear parts of seats situated below a horizontal plane passing through the lowest R point in each row of seats. (Where rows of seats have different heights, starting from the rear, the plane shall be turned up or down forming a vertical step passing through the R point of the row of seats immediately in front);

5.2.4.1.4. Parts such as ‘flexible wire mesh’.

5.2.4.2. In area 2, defined in paragraph 6.8.1.2 below, surfaces may exhibit radii less than 5 mm, but not less than 2,5 mm provided that they pass the energy-dissipation test prescribed in Annex 6 to this Regulation. Moreover, these surfaces shall be padded to avoid direct contact of the head with the seat frame structure.

5.2.4.3. If the areas defined above contain parts covered with material softer than 50 Shore A hardness, the above requirements, with the exception of those relating to the energy-dissipation test in accordance with the requirements of Annex 6, shall apply only to the rigid parts.

5.2.5. No failure shall be shown in the seat frame or in the seat anchorage, the adjustment and displacement systems or their locking devices during or after the tests prescribed in paragraphs 6.2 and 6.3 below. Permanent deformations, including ruptures, may be accepted, provided that these do not increase the risk of injury in the event of a collision and the prescribed loads were sustained.

5.2.6. No release of the locking systems shall occur during the tests described in paragraph 6.3 below and in Annex 9, paragraph 2.1 to this Regulation.

5.2.7. After the tests, the displacement systems intended for permitting or facilitating the access of occupants shall be in working order; they shall be capable, at least once, of being unlocked and shall permit the displacement of the seat or the part of the seat for which they are intended.

Any other displacement systems, as well as adjustment systems and their locking systems are not required to be in working order.

In the case of seats provided with head restraints, the strength of the seat-back and of its locking devices is deemed to meet the requirements set out in paragraph 6.2 when, after testing in accordance with paragraph 6.4.3.6 below, no breakage of the seat or seat-back has occurred: otherwise, it shall be shown that the seat is capable of meeting the test requirements set out in paragraph 6.2 below.

In the case of seats (benches) with more places to sit than head restraints and in case the manufacturer chooses not to apply 53 daNm during the test of paragraph 6.4, the seat back strength test of paragraph 6.2 has to be performed in addition to the test of paragraph 6.4.

5.3. General specifications applicable to seats of vehicles of categories N1, N2 and N3 and to seats of vehicles of categories M2 and M3 not covered by Regulation No 80.

With the exception of the provisions of paragraph 5.1, the requirements also apply to side-facing seats of all categories of vehicles.

5.3.1. Seats and bench seats shall be firmly attached to the vehicle.

5.3.2. Sliding seats and bench seats shall be automatically lockable in all the positions provided.

5.3.3. Adjustable seat-backs shall be lockable in all the positions provided.

5.3.4. All seats which can be tipped forward or have fold-on backs and folding seats shall lock automatically in the position of use by occupants.

These requirements do not apply to folding seats fitted in wheelchair spaces or areas for standing passengers of vehicles of category M2 or M3 of Class I, II or A and folding seat(s) fitted in the access passages of vehicles of category M2 or M3.

5.4. Mounting of head restraints

5.4.1. A head restraint shall be mounted on every outboard front seat in every vehicle of category M1. Seats fitted with head restraints, intended for fitment in other seating positions and in other categories of vehicles may also be approved to this Regulation.

5.4.2. A head restraint shall be mounted on every outboard front seat in every vehicle of category M2 with a maximum mass not exceeding 3 500 kg and of category N1; head restraints mounted in such vehicles shall comply with the requirements of Regulation No 25, as amended by 04 series of amendments.

5.5. Special requirements for seats fitted or capable of being fitted with head restraints

5.5.1. The presence of the head restraint shall not be an additional cause of danger to occupants of the vehicle. In particular, it shall not in any position of use exhibit any dangerous roughness or sharp edge liable to increase the risk or seriousness of injury to the occupants.

5.5.1.1. Parts of the front and rear faces of head restraints situated in area 1 as defined in paragraph 6.8.1.1.3 below, shall be so padded as to prevent any direct contact of the head with the components of the structure and shall meet the requirements of paragraph 5.2.4 above.

5.5.1.2. Parts of the front and rear faces of head restraints situated in area 2, as defined in paragraph 6.8.1.2 below, shall be so padded as to prevent any direct contact of the head with the components of the structure and shall meet the requirements of paragraph 5.2.4 above applicable to the rear parts of seats situated in area 2. In the case of head restraints integrated with the seat back, the front face of the head restraint is considered as the area located above a plane perpendicular to the reference line at 540 mm from the R point and between two vertical longitudinal planes at 85 mm on either side of the reference line.

5.5.2. Parts of the front and rear faces of the head restraints situated in area 1, as defined in paragraph 6.8.1.1.3 below shall pass the energy absorption test.

5.5.2.1. This requirement is deemed to be met if in the tests carried out by the procedure specified in Annex 6 the deceleration of the headform does not exceed 80 g continuously for more than 3 ms. Moreover, no dangerous edge shall occur during or remain after the test.

5.5.3. The requirements of paragraphs 5.5.1 and 5.5.2 above, shall not apply to rear parts of head restraints designed to be fitted to seats behind which no seat is provided.

5.5.4. The head restraints shall be secured to the seat or to the vehicle structure in such a way that no rigid and dangerous parts project from the padding of the head restraint or from its attachments to the seat-back as a result of the pressure exerted by the headform during the test.

5.5.5. In the case of a seat fitted with head restraints, the provisions of paragraph 5.2.3 may, after agreement of the Technical Service, be considered to be met if the seat fitted with its head restraint complies with the provisions of paragraph 5.5.2 above.

5.6. Height of head restraints

5.6.1. The height of head restraints shall be measured as described in paragraph 6.5 below.

5.6.2. For head restraints not adjustable for height, the height shall be not less than 800 mm in the case of front seats and 750 mm in the case of other seats.

5.6.3. For head restraints adjustable for height:

5.6.3.1. The height shall be not less than 800 mm in the case of front seats and 750 mm in the case of other seats; this value shall be obtained in a position between the highest and lowest positions to which adjustment is possible;

5.6.3.2. There shall be no ‘use position’ resulting in a height of less than 750 mm;

5.6.3.3. In the case of seats other than the front seats the head restraints may be such that they can be displaced to a position resulting in a height of less than 750 mm, provided that such position is clearly recognisable to the occupant as not being included for the use of the head restraint;

5.6.3.4. In the case of front seats head restraints may be such that they can be automatically displaced when the seat is not occupied, to a position resulting in a height of less than 750 mm, provided that they automatically return to the position of use when the seat is occupied.

5.6.4. The dimensions mentioned in paragraphs 5.6.2 and 5.6.3.1 above may be less than 800 mm in the case of front seats and 750 mm in the case of other seats to leave adequate clearance between the head restraint and the interior surface of the roof, the windows or any part of the vehicle structure; however, the clearance shall not exceed 25 mm. In the case of seats fitted with displacement and/or adjustment systems, this shall apply to all seat positions. Furthermore, by derogation to paragraph 5.6.3.2 above, there shall not be any ‘use position’ resulting in a height lower than 700 mm.

5.6.5. By derogation to the height requirements mentioned in paragraphs 5.6.2 and 5.6.3.1 above, the height of any head restraint designed to be provided in rear centre seats or seating positions shall be not less than 700 mm.

5.7. In the case of a seat capable of being fitted with a head restraint, the provisions of paragraphs 5.2.3 and 5.5.2 above shall be verified.

5.7.1. The height of the part of the device on which the head rests, measured as described in paragraph 6.5 below, shall in the case of a head restraint adjustable for height be not less than 100 mm.

5.8. There shall be no gap of more than 60 mm between the seat-back and the head restraint in the case of a device not adjustable for height. If the head restraint is adjustable for height it shall, in its lowest position, be not more than 25 mm from the top of the seat-back. In the case of seats or bench seats adjustable in height provided with separate head restraints, this requirement shall be verified for all the positions of the seat or bench seat.

5.9. In the case of head restraints integral with the seat-back, the area to be considered is:

Above a plane perpendicular to the reference line at 540 mm from the R point.

Between two vertical longitudinal planes passing at 85 mm on either side of the reference line. In this area, one or more gaps which regardless of their shape can show a distance ‘a’ of more than 60 mm when measured as described in paragraph 6.7 below, are permitted provided that, after the additional test under paragraph 6.4.3.3.2 below, the requirements of paragraph 5.12 below are still met.

5.10. In the case of head restraints adjustable for height one or more gaps, which regardless of their shape can show a distance ‘a’ of more than 60 mm when measured as described in paragraph 6.7 below, are permitted on the part of the device serving as a head restraint provided that, after the additional test under paragraph 6.4.3.3.2 below, the requirements of paragraph 5.12 below are still met.

5.11. The width of the head restraint shall be such as to provide appropriate support for the head of a person normally seated. As determined according to the procedure described in paragraph 6.6 below, the head restraint shall cover an area extending not less than 85 mm to each side of the vertical median plane of the seat for which the head restraint is intended.

5.12. The head restraint and its anchorage shall be such that the maximum backward displacement X of the head permitted by the head restraint and measured in conformity with the static procedure laid down in paragraph 6.4.3 below, is less than 102 mm.

5.13. The head restraint and its anchorage shall be strong enough to bear without breakage the load specified in paragraph 6.4.3.6 below. In the case of head restraints integral with the seat-back, the requirements of this paragraph shall apply to the part of the seat-back structure situated above a plane perpendicular to the reference line at 540 mm from the R point.

5.14. If the head restraint is adjustable, it shall not be possible to raise it beyond the maximum operational height except by deliberate action on the part of the user distinct from any act necessary for its adjustment.

5.15. The strength of the seat-back and of its locking devices is deemed to meet the requirements set out in paragraph 6.2 below when, after testing in accordance with paragraph 6.4.3.6 below, no breakage of the seat or seat-back has occurred; otherwise, it shall be shown that the seat is capable of meeting the test requirements set out in paragraph 6.2 below.

5.16. Special requirements regarding the protection of occupants from displaced luggage

5.16.1. Seat-backs

Seat-backs and/or head restraints located such that they constitute the forward boundary of the luggage compartment, all seats being in place and in the normal position of use as indicated by the manufacturer, shall have sufficient strength to protect the occupants from displaced luggage in a frontal impact. This requirement is deemed to be met if, during and after the test described in Annex 9, the seat-backs remain in position, and the locking mechanisms remain in place. However, the deformation of the seat-backs and their fastenings during the test is permitted, provided that the forward contour of the parts of the tested seat-back and/or head restraints, that are harder than 50 Shore A, does not move forward of a transverse vertical plane which passes through:

(a) A point of 150 mm forward of the R point of the seat in question, for the parts of the head restraint;

(b) A point of 100 mm forward of the R point of the seat in question, for parts of the seat-back;

excluding the rebound phases of the test blocks.

For integrated head restraints, the limit between the head restraint and the seat-back is defined by the plane perpendicular to the reference line 540 mm from the R point.

All measurements shall be taken in the longitudinal median plane of the corresponding seat or seating position for each seating position constituting the forward boundary of the luggage compartment.

During the test described in Annex 9, the test blocks shall remain behind the seat-back(s) in question. In case of damage to a safety-belt retractor, it shall be verified that the retractor is locked as a result of the test or that it can be locked by a manual pull out of the strap.

5.16.2. Partitioning systems

At the request of the vehicle manufacturer, the test described in Annex 9 may be carried out with the partitioning systems in place, if these systems are fitted as standard equipment for the particular type of vehicle.

Partitioning systems, netting wire mesh located above the seat-backs in their normal position of use, shall be tested according to paragraph 2.2 of Annex 9.

This requirement is deemed to be met if, during the test, the partitioning systems remain in position. However, the deformation of the partitioning systems during the test is permitted, provided that the forward contour of the partitioning (including parts of the tested seat-back(s) and/or head restraint(s) that are harder than 50 Shore A) does not move forward of a transverse vertical plane which passes through:

(a) A point of 150 mm forward of the R point of the seat in question, for parts of the head restraint;

(b) A point of 100 mm forward of the R point of the seat in question, for parts of the seat-back and part of the partitioning system others than the head restraint.

For integrated head restraint, the limit between the head restraint and the seat-back is the one defined in paragraph 5.16.1.

All measurements shall be taken in the longitudinal median plane of the corresponding seat or seating position for each seating position constituting the forward boundary of the luggage compartment.

After the test, no sharp or rough edges likely to increase the danger or severity of injuries of the occupants shall be present. In case of damage to a safety-belt retractor, it shall be verified that the retractor is locked already or that it can be locked by a manual pull out of the strap.

5.16.3. The requirements mentioned in paragraphs 5.16.1. and 5.16.2. above shall not apply to luggage retention systems which are activated automatically in case of an impact. The manufacturer shall demonstrate to the satisfaction of the Technical Service that the protection offered by such systems is equivalent to that described in paragraphs 5.16.1. and 5.16.2.

6. TESTS

6.1. General specifications applicable to all tests

6.1.1. The seat-back, if adjustable, shall be locked in a position corresponding to a rearward inclination as close as possible to 25 ° from the vertical of the torso reference line of the manikin described in Annex 3, unless otherwise specified by the manufacturer.

6.1.2. When a seat, its locking mechanism and its installation are identical or symmetrical with respect to another seat on the vehicle, the Technical Service may test only one such seat.

6.1.3. In the case of seats with adjustable head restraints, the tests shall be conducted with the head restraints placed in the most unfavourable position (generally, the highest position) allowed by its adjusting system.

6.1.4. Folding seats shall be tested in the position of use by occupants.

6.2. Test of strength of the seat-back and its adjustment systems

6.2.1. A force producing a moment of 53 daNm in relation to the R point shall be applied longitudinally and rearwards to the upper part of the seat-back frame through a component simulating the back of the manikin shown in Annex 3 to this Regulation. In the case of a bench seat, where part or all of the supporting frame (including that of the head restraints) is common to more than one seating position, the test shall be conducted simultaneously for all those seating positions.

6.3. Test of strength of the seat anchorage and the adjustment, locking and displacement systems.

6.3.1. A longitudinal horizontal deceleration or, at the choice of the applicant, acceleration of not less than 20 g shall be applied for 30 milliseconds in a direction to the whole shell of the vehicle imitating a frontal collision, in accordance with the requirements of Annex 7, paragraph 1. At the request of the manufacturer the test pulse described in Annex 9 — Appendix may be used alternatively.

6.3.2. A longitudinal deceleration or, at the choice of the applicant, acceleration in accordance with the requirements of paragraph 6.3.1 shall be applied imitating a rear collision.

6.3.3. The requirements of paragraphs 6.3.1 and 6.3.2 above shall be verified for all positions of the seat. In the case of seats fitted with an adjustable head restraint, the test shall be conducted with the head restraints placed in the most unfavourable position (generally the highest position) allowed by its adjusting system. During the test the seat shall be so positioned that no external factor shall prevent the release of the locking systems.

These conditions shall be considered to be met if the seat is tested after being adjusted in the following positions:

The longitudinal adjustment is fixed one notch or 10 mm rearward of the most forward normal driving position or position of use as indicated by the manufacturer (for seats with independent vertical adjustment, the cushion shall be placed in its highest position);

The longitudinal adjustment is fixed one notch or 10 mm forward of the most rearward normal driving position or position of use as indicated by the manufacturer (for seats with independent vertical adjustment, the cushion shall be placed in its lowest position), and, where appropriate, in accordance with the requirements of paragraph 6.3.4 below.

6.3.4. In cases where the arrangement of the locking systems is such that, in a seat position other than those defined in paragraph 6.3.3 above, the distribution of the forces on the locking devices and seat anchorages would be less favourable than with either configuration defined in paragraph 6.3.3 above, the tests shall be conducted for that less favourable seating position.

6.3.5. The test conditions of paragraph 6.3.1 above shall be considered to be satisfied if, at the request of the manufacturer, they are replaced by a collision test of the complete vehicle in running order against a rigid barrier as laid down in paragraph 2 of Annex 7 to this Regulation. In this case, the seat shall be adjusted for the least favourable conditions of distribution of stresses in the anchorage system as provided for in paragraphs 6.1.1, 6.3.3 and 6.3.4 above.

6.4. Test of the performance of the head restraint

6.4.1. If the head restraint is adjustable, it shall be placed in the most unfavourable position (generally the highest position) allowed by its adjustment system.

6.4.2. In the case of a bench seat, where part or all of the supporting frame (including that of the head restraints) is common to more than one seating position, the test shall be conducted simultaneously for all those seating positions.

6.4.3. Test

6.4.3.1. All lines, including the projections of the reference line, shall be drawn in the vertical median plane of the seat or seating position concerned (see Annex 5 to this Regulation).

6.4.3.2. The displaced reference line is determined by applying to the part simulating the back of the manikin referred to in Annex 3 to this Regulation an initial force producing a rearward moment of 37,3 daNm about the R point. In the case of simultaneous testing of bench seats, the rear ward moment shall be applied to all seating positions of the bench simultaneously, irrespective of this position being equipped with or without head restraint.

6.4.3.3. By means of a spherical headform 165 mm in diameter an initial force producing a moment of 37,3 daNm about the R point is applied at right angles to the displaced reference line at a distance of 65 mm below the top of the head restraint, the reference line being kept in its displaced position in accordance with paragraph 6.4.3.2 above. In the case of simultaneous testing of bench seats, the force shall be applied to all head restraints as present on the bench seats simultaneously.

6.4.3.3.1. If the presence of gaps prevents the application of the force prescribed in paragraph 6.4.3.3 above at 65 mm from the top of the head restraint, the distance may be reduced so that the axis of the force passes through the centre line of the frame element nearest to the gap.

6.4.3.3.2. In the cases described in paragraphs 5.9 and 5.10 above, the test shall be repeated by applying to each gap, using a sphere of 165 mm in diameter, a force:

Passing through the centre of gravity of the smallest of the sections of the gap, along transversal planes parallel to the reference line, and

Reproducing a moment of 37,3 daNm about the R point.

6.4.3.4. The tangent Y to the spherical headform, parallel to the displaced reference line, is determined.

6.4.3.5. The distance X, provided for in paragraph 5.11 above, between the tangent Y and the displaced reference line is measured.

6.4.3.6. To check the effectiveness of the head restraint, the initial load specified in paragraphs 6.4.3.3 and 6.4.3.3.2 is increased to 89 daN unless the breakage of the seat or seat-back occurs earlier. At the request of the manufacturer the load of paragraph 6.4.3.2 is increased simultaneously to 53 daNm for seating positions without head restraints only to allow simultaneous compliance with paragraphs 5.15 and 6.2.

6.5. Determination of the height of the head restraint

6.5.1. All lines, including the projection of the reference line, shall be drawn in the vertical median plane of the seat or seating position concerned, the intersection of such plane with the seat determining the contour of the head restraint and of the seat-back (see Figure 1 of Annex 4 to this Regulation).

6.5.2. The manikin described in Annex 3 to this Regulation shall be placed in a normal position on the seat.

6.5.3. The projection of the reference line of the manikin shown in Annex 3 to this Regulation is then, in the seat concerned, drawn in the plane specified in paragraph 6.4.3.1 above.

The tangent S to the top of the head restraint is drawn perpendicular to the reference line.

6.5.4. The distance ‘h’ from the R point to the tangent S is the height to be taken into consideration in implementing the requirements of paragraph 5.6 above.

6.6. Determination of the width of the head restraint (see Figure 2 of Annex 4 to this Regulation)

6.6.1. The plane S1, perpendicular to the reference line and situated 65 mm below the tangent S defined in paragraph 6.5.3 above, determines a section in the head restraint bounded by the outline C.

6.6.2. The width of the head restraint to be taken into consideration in implementing the requirements of paragraph 5.11 above, is the distance ‘L’ measured in the plane S1 between the vertical longitudinal planes P and P’.

6.6.3. The width of the head restraint shall if necessary also be determined in the plane perpendicular to the reference line 635 mm above the R point of the seat, this distance being measured along the reference line.

6.7. Determination of distance ‘a’ of head restraint gaps, (see Annex 8 to this Regulation)

6.7.1. The distance ‘a’ shall be determined for each gap and in relation to the front face of the head restraint, by means of a sphere having a diameter of 165 mm.

6.7.2. The sphere shall be put into contact with the gap in a point of the gap area which allows the maximum sphere intrusion, considering no load is to be applied.

6.7.3. The distance between the two points of contact of the sphere with the gap will constitute the distance ‘a’ to be considered for the evaluation of the provisions under paragraphs 5.9 and 5.10 above.

6.8. Tests for checking energy dissipation on the seat-back and head restraint

6.8.1. The surfaces of the rear parts of seats to be checked are those situated in the areas defined below which can be contacted by a 165 mm diameter sphere when the seat is mounted in the vehicle.

6.8.1.1. Area 1

6.8.1.1.1. In the case of separate seats without head restraints, this area shall include the rear part of the seat-back between the longitudinal vertical planes situated at 100 mm on either side of the longitudinal median plane of the seat centre line, and above a plane perpendicular to the reference line 100 mm below the top of the seat-back.

6.8.1.1.2. In the case of bench seats without head restraints, this area shall extend between the longitudinal vertical planes situated at 100 mm on either side of the longitudinal median plane of each designated outboard seating position defined by the manufacturer and above a plane perpendicular to the reference line 100 mm below the top of the seat-back.

6.8.1.1.3. In the case of seats or bench seats with head restraints, this area shall extend between the longitudinal vertical planes, on either side of and 70 mm from the longitudinal median plane of the seat or of the seating position concerned and situated above the plane perpendicular to the reference line 635 mm from the R point. For the test, the head restraint, if adjustable shall be placed in the most unfavourable position (generally the highest) permitted by its adjustment system.

6.8.1.2. Area 2

6.8.1.2.1. In the case of seats or bench seats without head restraints and seats or bench seats with detachable or separate head restraints, area 2 shall extend above a plane perpendicular to the reference line 100 mm distant from the top of the seat-back, other than parts of area 1.

6.8.1.2.2. In the case of seats or bench seats with integrated head restraints, area 2 shall extend above a plane perpendicular to the reference line 440 mm distant from the R point of the seat or of the seating position concerned, other than parts of area 1.

6.8.1.3. Area 3

6.8.1.3.1. Area 3 is defined as the part of the back of the seat or the bench seats situated above the horizontal planes defined in paragraph 5.2.4.1.3 above, excluding parts situated in area 1 and area 2.

6.9. Equivalent test methods

If a test method other than those specified in paragraphs 6.2, 6.3, 6.4 above and Annex 6 is used, its equivalence shall be proved.

7. CONFORMITY OF PRODUCTION

The conformity of production procedures shall comply with those set out in the Agreement, (Schedule 1, E/ECE/TRANS/505/Rev.3), with the following requirements:

7.1. Every vehicle approved pursuant to this Regulation shall be so manufactured as to conform to the type approved by meeting the requirements set out in paragraph 5 above. However, in the case of head restraints as defined in paragraph 2.12.2 and 2.12.3 above, nothing shall prevent the vehicle from conforming to the vehicle type approved, even if it is marketed with seats not fitted with head restraints.

7.2. The Type Approval Authority which granted type approval may at any time verify the conformity control methods applied for each production unit. The authority may also carry out random checks on serially-manufactured vehicles in respect to the requirements set out in paragraph 5 above.

8. PENALTIES FOR NON-CONFORMITY OF PRODUCTION

8.1. The approval granted in respect of a vehicle type pursuant to this Regulation may be withdrawn if the requirements laid down in paragraph 7.1 above are not complied with or if the vehicles fail in the checks prescribed in paragraph 7 above.

8.2. If a Party to the Agreement applying this Regulation withdraws an approval it has previously granted, it shall forthwith so notify the other Contracting Parties applying this Regulation by means of a communication form conforming to the model in Annex 1 to this Regulation.

9. MODIFICATIONS OF THE VEHICLE TYPE AND EXTENSION OF APPROVAL WITH RESPECT TO THE SEATS, THEIR ANCHORAGES AND/OR THEIR HEAD RESTRAINTS

9.1. Every modification of the vehicle type with respect to the seats, their anchorages and/or their head restraints shall be notified to the Type Approval Authority which approved the vehicle type. The Authority may then either:

9.1.1. Consider that the modifications made are unlikely to have an appreciable adverse effect, and that in any event the vehicle still complies with the requirements; or

9.1.2. Consider that the modifications are sufficiently unimportant for the results specified in paragraph 6.2, 6.3 and 6.4 above to be verified by calculations based on the approval test results; or

9.1.3. Require a further report from the Technical Service responsible for conducting the tests.

9.2. Confirmation or refusal of approval, specifying the modifications, shall be communicated to the Parties to the Agreement applying this Regulation by means of the procedure laid down in paragraph 4.3 above.

9.3. The Type Approval Authority issuing the extension of approval shall assign a series number for such an extension and inform thereof the other Parties to the 1958 Agreement applying this Regulation by means of a communication form conforming to the model in Annex 1 to this Regulation.

10. PRODUCTION DEFINITIVELY DISCONTINUED

10.1. If the holder of the approval completely ceases to manufacture a device approved in accordance with this Regulation, he shall so inform the authority which granted the approval. Upon receiving the relevant communication that authority shall inform thereof the other Parties to the 1958 Agreement applying this Regulation by means of a communication form conforming to the model in Annex 1 to this Regulation.

11. INSTRUCTION FOR USE

11.1. For seats fitted with adjustable head restraints, the manufacturers shall provide instructions on how to operate, adjust, lock and, where applicable, remove the head restraints.

12. NAMES AND ADDRESSES OF TECHNICAL SERVICES RESPONSIBLE FOR CONDUCTING APPROVAL TESTS AND OF TYPE APPROVAL AUTHORITIES

The Parties to the Agreement applying this Regulation shall communicate to the United Nations Secretariat the names and addresses of the Technical Services responsible for conducting approval tests and of the Type Approval Authority which grant approval and to which forms certifying approval or extension or refusal or withdrawal of approval, issued in other countries, are to be sent.

13. TRANSITIONAL PROVISIONS

13.1. As from the official date of entry into force of the 06 series of amendments, no Contracting Party applying this Regulation shall refuse to grant approvals under this Regulation as amended by the 06 series of amendments.

13.2. As from 1 October 1999, Contracting Parties applying this Regulation shall grant approvals only if the requirements of this Regulation, as amended by the 06 series of amendments, are satisfied.

13.3. As from 1 October 2001, Contracting Parties applying this Regulation may refuse to recognise approvals which were not granted in accordance with the 06 series of amendments to this Regulation.

13.4. As from the official date of entry into force of the 07 series of amendments, no Contracting Party applying this Regulation shall refuse to grant approvals under this Regulation as amended by the 07 series of amendments.

13.5. As from 24 months after the date of entry into force of the 07 series of amendments, Contracting Parties applying this Regulation shall grant approval only if the vehicle type to be approved complies with the requirements of this Regulation as amended by the 07 series of amendments.

13.6. As from 48 months after the date of entry into force of the 07 series of amendments, existing approvals to this Regulation shall cease to be valid, except in the case of vehicle types which comply with the requirements of this Regulation as amended by the 07 series of amendments.

13.7. As from the official date of entry into force of the 08 series of amendments, no Contracting Party applying this Regulation shall refuse to grant approvals under this Regulation as amended by the 08 series of amendments.

13.8. As from 24 months after the date of entry into force of the 08 series of amendments, Contracting Parties applying this Regulation shall grant approvals only if the requirements of this Regulation, as amended by the 08 series of amendments, are satisfied.

13.9. As from 36 months after the date of entry into force of the 08 series of amendments, Contracting Parties applying this Regulation may refuse to recognise approvals which were not granted in accordance with the 08 series of amendments to this Regulation.

13.10. Notwithstanding paragraphs 13.8 and 13.9, approvals of the vehicle categories which are not affected by the 08 series of amendments shall remain valid and Contracting Parties applying the Regulation shall continue to accept them.

13.11. As long as there are no requirements forbidding side-facing seats in their national requirements at the time of acceding to this Regulation, Contracting Parties may continue to allow the fitting of side-facing seats for the purpose of national approval and in this case these bus categories cannot be type approved under this Regulation.

13.12. As from the official date of entry into force of the 09 series of amendments, no Contracting Party applying this Regulation shall refuse to grant or refuse to accept type approvals under this Regulation as amended by the 09 series of amendments.

13.12.1. As from 1 September 2020, Contracting Parties applying this Regulation shall not be obliged to accept type approvals to the preceding series of amendments that were first issued on or after 1 September 2020.

13.12.2. Until 1 September 2022, Contracting Parties applying this Regulation shall accept type approvals to the preceding series of amendments that were first issued before 1 September 2020.

13.12.3. As from 1 September 2022, Contracting Parties applying this Regulation shall not be obliged to accept type approvals issued to the preceding series of amendments to this Regulation.

13.12.4. Notwithstanding paragraph 13.12.3, Contracting Parties applying this Regulation shall continue to accept type-approvals to the preceding series of amendments to this Regulation, for vehicles which are not affected by the changes introduced by the 09 series of amendments.

13.12.5. Contracting Parties applying this Regulation shall not refuse to grant type approvals according to any preceding series of amendments to this Regulation or extensions thereof.

(1) As defined in the Consolidated Resolution on the Construction of Vehicles (R.E.3.), document ECE/TRANS/WP.29/78/Rev.6, para. 2 — http://www.unece.org/trans/main/wp29/wp29wgs/wp29gen/wp29resolutions.html

(2) The distinguishing numbers of the Contracting Parties to the 1958 Agreement are reproduced in Annex 3 to the Consolidated Resolution on the Construction of Vehicles (R.E.3), document ECE/TRANS/WP.29/78/Rev. 6, Annex 3 — http://www.unece.org/trans/main/wp29/wp29wgs/wp29gen/wp29resolutions.html

(3) Vehicles of category M2, which are approved to this Regulation as an alternative to Regulation No 80 (in line with paragraph 1.2 to that Regulation) shall also meet the requirements of this paragraph.