JOC Staff | Mar 18, 2013 2:35PM EDT
An organization representing makers of rechargeable batteries is urging the U.S. Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration to bring U.S. regulations on air transport of lithium batteries in alignment with international standards for such shipments.
PRBA–The Rechargeable Battery Association has filed comments stating its support for proposed harmonization but decrying a dual system that would give carriers and shippers the option of complying with existing PHMSA regulations or the ICAO Technical Instructions for domestic-only shipments of lithium batteries.
"Dual standards create a cloud of confusion for everyone in the battery industry. Confusion limits compliance. And lack of compliance jeopardizes safety," PRBA Executive Director George Kerchner said in a written statement. PRBA further asserts that the PHMSA's plan to allow a choice of compliance regimes "would not be consistent with the intent" of the 2012 FAA Modernization and Reform Act.