A driver airbag module (20) comprising a cover (22), a housing (40) matably configured with cover (22), a pyrotechnic inflator (60) having a flange (70), and airbag fitted within the space between housing (40, 40a) and cover (22), the airbag inflating with gas provided by the inflator (60), wherein the heat shield (80) is positioned between the lower surface (42) of housing (40, 40a) and an upper surface (71) of flange (70), the heat shield protectively shielding surface (42) from the heat transfer from flange (70) to prevent surface (42) from melting.