JOHNSTOWN, Pa.- Jan. 22, 2008 - Today, Professional Outdoor Media Association (POMA) Chairman Steve Scott provided an update to POMA members and the outdoor industry about POMA's efforts regarding the new U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) rule restricting airline travel with lithium ion batteries.

POMA is currently engaged in discussions with policy makers at DOT regarding the newly imposed ban on lithium ion batteries in checked luggage, and restrictions on the size and number permitted in carry-on baggage on commercial aircraft.

While the implementation of these rules could have a debilitating impact on certain sectors of our industry, it is likely a compromise will be reached that satisfies the concerns of the outdoor media, while maintaining air safety standards.

Background: The new rule was promulgated through the Hazardous Materials division of DOT. From a legislative process perspective, there was little chance this issue would have appeared on POMA's or any other media association's radar during the pre-decision comment period. The only groups who have officially commented since the rule was put into effect on Jan. 1, 2008, are POMA and the White House Press Office.

There have been several instances where improperly transported lithium ion batteries have been short circuited and caused fires. When ignited, LI fires are significantly hotter and more dangerous than the average combustible fire, and are, in fact, much more difficult to control. This is the rationale for the prohibition of LI batteries in checked luggage, as a LI fire in the cargo hold would likely be out of control before effective retardant could be applied. This type of fire would be of the same nature as that which was the cause of the 1996 Value Jet crash in Florida)

Our Concern:  Part of the industry concern stemmed from the erroneous guidelines that were distributed by DOT when the rule was implemented. Based on a somewhat complicated formula, spare batteries in carry-on luggage are limited to two batteries of up to 25 grams of "equivalent lithium content."

However, there is an apparently unlimited exception for cells that contain eight grams or less of equivalent lithium content. Most phone, laptop and small video camera batteries fall into this exception, and are exempt from the two battery limitation according to Erin Jarman, a Hazmat specialist with the DOT's Hazardous Materials Information Center.

With the need for scientific-style calculations, rules and exceptions, it is foreseeable there is the potential for a great deal of confusion at the enforcement level.

Many of us have experienced inconsistent enforcement of travel rules by Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agents at various airports. What may pass through security without a second glance at Dallas, may require additional screening at New York. "Field interpretation and enforcement" of policy remains a major concern of POMA and its members, as well as Jarman and the DOT.
 

What You Need To Do

KNOW THE RULES: safetravel.dot.gov/whats_new_batteries.html Print a copy and carry it with you. It may be the difference between getting on the plane with, or without, your spare batteries.

KEEP BATTERIES TRAVEL SAFE: There are legitimate safety concerns. Put each LI battery in a SEPARATE plastic bag or similar container to avoid an inadvertent short circuit.

REPORT OVERZEALOUS ENFORCEMENT: If a TSA agent express concern over the number and/or size of your LI batteries, Report TSA incidents to POMA. POMA is serving as a clearing house for reports of field problems and will apprise DOT accordingly.

The Bottom Line

Currently, TSA has instructed field personnel NOT to confiscate batteries during the initial implementation, in order to familiarize the traveling public with the new rules. However, at some point in 2008, TSA will end this "grace period" and begin full enforcement.

In the interim, POMA is proposing language to DOT for an exception to the rules for working media members, which will eliminate potential problems with TSA. Being cognizant of the inherent danger, media will voluntarily hold themselves to a higher standard and transport batteries in the prescribed manner, in order to warrant the exception.

Likely, you will have to show your POMA, or other media credentials, to TSA - so being a POMA member may soon yield another benefit.

Though we expect a positive outcome, the situation is still fluid. We will keep you informed.

Respectfully,
Steve Scott, Chairman
Professional Outdoor Media Association