Occasionally you might come across something like;

• A seat belt tongue not engaging in the seat belt buckle
• Fraying in the vehicle’s seat belt
• A twist that cannot be removed, indicating it’s been removed and restored incorrectly at some point

Or any other reason a seat belt is not functioning correctly.  You will eventually ask yourself “Can I actually install a child seat to this car?”

Answer: The answer is probably no.  Similar to a child safety seat, if a vehicle is not operating as it was originally when it was tested to pass the Australian Standards then it is no longer actually road worthy.  Therefore if a vehicle’s seat belt is not operating correctly then it is no longer right to fulfill an install.  You will need to advise your client to either contact the dealer or mechanic to rectify the seat belt OR Choose another location to install to.

What if my client is determined to install the seat in that location and has no other alternate mode of safe travel for a child they are picking up?

In some case, at your discretion, it is plausible that you could complete the installation while issuing a caveat on the installation documentation and ensuring the client signs the waiver.  Your waiver should include the following key points;

1. You have advised the client of the problem, and the problem results in the vehicle not meeting road worthy requirements.
2. You have advised the client to immediately get the issue rectified prior to travelling with a child in the seat by contacting their dealership or mechanic.
3. After advising the client of these points the client has requested you to complete the installation.

An example you could use in the notes of the installation could be: “Advised client of twisting in seat belt, appears to be caused by previous removal of belt and re-installation.  Client advised to return to his mechanic to rectify immediately.  Client requested installation be completed and they will address.”