SAE J3026 FEB2026 establishes testing procedures and acceptance criteria for ground ambulance patient compartment seating and occupant restraint systems used by workers and civilians. The recommended practice addresses pedestal, bench, jump, and adjustable seating systems in forward-facing, rear-facing, and side-facing orientations.
It covers rigid sled testing, crash pulse conditions, anthropomorphic test device selection, restraint release requirements, biomechanical performance limits, instrumentation, high-speed video, pre-test setup, and post-test inspection. The revision clarifies the option to use a 50th percentile male Hybrid III ATD instead of an ES-2re ATD for side-impact testing and supersedes SAE J3026 NOV2016.
Application Scope: Ambulance seating manufacturers, occupant restraint manufacturers, ambulance builders, test laboratories, engineers, regulators, and end users evaluating ground ambulance patient compartment seating and restraint systems. This practice is not applicable to other vehicle applications or seating positions.
