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Performance standards are proposed for occupant restraint systems intended for use on commercial go-karts. Criteria for these standards are developed through an analysis of the design and operating environment of the typical go-kart and an examination of government statistics on go-kart related accidents. It is proposed that such systems be capable of restraining an occupant inside the occupant compartment of a go-kart during a 25 mph barrier collision. Any such design must also be capable of fitting occupants ranging in size from a six year old child to an adult and must be capable of use by a child without adult supervision. It is further proposed that go-kart restraint systems should not increase the threat of entanglement. The paper concludes with an analysis of a practical example a go-kart restraint system and its performance in a crash test.

Occupant restraint system design for off-highway vehicles is examined from the standpoint of occupant comfort. Typical conditions of use for this class of vehicle subject the occupant, seat and restraint system to a wide range of occupant- and vehicle-induced movements both into and away from the seat belt. These types of movements in both static and retractable systems can create high seat belt loading and loss of comfort for the occupant. This loss of comfort may reduce the likelihood of seat belt use which will, in turn, reduce the overall effectiveness of the restraint system in the event of a collision or rollover. Solutions to this problem involve eliminating or counteracting the spring force of the retractor to reduce peak belt loads on the occupant. Several design solutions are examined for effectiveness in reducing occupant belt loads while maintaining overall safety.