I R&R’d it on my son’s 2003 Saab. Had to do it in order to remove the turn signal switch if you can believe that.

Disconnected the battery and then waited about a 1/2 hour.

Same thing when I had to replace the pyro seat belt tensioner in my V70.

Survived both repairs.

Maybe one of our more electrically savvy members could address the possibility of static charge jumping from mechanic (you) to the airbag assembly via metal tools. And what are the possible repercussions if it DID do that?

I’m not trying to scare you, but by nature I’m always looking for whatever could go wrong.