If a vehicle does not have factory-installed child restraint anchor points, additional checks may be required before anchor points can be installed and a child restraint fitted.
Requirements for vehicle modifications are set by the regulatory powers of each State and Territory which means there are subtle variations between them. For example, in Victoria, vehicle modifications must comply with the applicable Victorian vehicle standards and may require approval and certification through the Vehicle Assessment Signatory Scheme (VASS).
A CPST should not assume that their fitting qualification alone authorises them to modify a vehicle's structure or install new anchor points (Other than for vehicles with existing factory mounting points requiring a standard bolt kit assembly). If a vehicle modification is required then this should be carried out by an appropriate engineer, with the appropriate modification certificate of compliance, or modification plate depending on the State, being supplied to the consumer.
Some vehicles have manufacturer-provided mounting points that can accommodate approved child restraint anchorages.
Before proceeding, check the vehicle manufacturer's instructions and the applicable requirements to establish whether the mounting point is intended for that purpose.
Using an existing factory mounting point is different from creating a new anchorage location. The fact that a hole or threaded point exists does not, by itself, establish that it is suitable for a child restraint anchorage.
If a vehicle has no suitable factory mounting point in the required position, installing an anchor point may involve structural modifications, such as drilling, reinforcement, water/sound proofing or other changes to the vehicle body.
In Victoria, these types of modifications may require assessment and approval by an appropriately authorised VASS signatory. The applicable requirements should be confirmed before work begins.
The relevant Victorian guidance includes:
VSI 17 – Summary of Child Restraint Anchorages: Guidance relating to child restraint anchorages and their installation.
VSI 19 – Modifying Seats or Seating Capacity: Victorian requirements for vehicle seating modifications, including circumstances in which VASS approval may be required.
VSI 8 – Guide to Modification for Motor Vehicles: General guidance on vehicle modifications.
Refer to the relevant guidance and consult an appropriately authorised VASS signatory to confirm the requirements for the proposed modification.
If a vehicle's anchor points have been installed or modified by a mechanic, technician or another person, the CPST should establish whether the installation complies with the applicable requirements. This can be done directly with the consumer, and although the CPST is not legally required to sight the modification certificate as best practice they must establish whether one exists for that modification.
If the required compliance certificate existence has not been determined then the CPST should not install a child restraint using the modified anchor points until the necessary compliance documentation has been provided and the issue has been resolved.
As Andrew from ACRI explains, in Victoria the expectation is that a VASS-accredited representative will perform or assess the modification and provide a certificate verifying compliance.
If you are unsure whether the anchor points are suitable or whether the modification has been appropriately certified, seek clarification before proceeding with the installation.
Vehicle modification requirements differ between Australian states and territories.
Existing factory mounting points must be confirmed as suitable for the intended child restraint anchorage. CPST’s can install additional bolt kits to existing, factory mounting points.
Creating new anchor points may involve structural modifications and may require assessment, approval and certification.
In Victoria, consult the applicable vehicle standards and an appropriately authorised VASS signatory to confirm the requirements.
If required compliance documentation is non-existent, do not install a child restraint using modified anchor points until the issue has been resolved.
Important: This article provides general guidance and is not a substitute for the applicable legislation, vehicle manufacturer's instructions or professional advice. Always confirm the current requirements for the relevant state or territory before proceeding.
