2 Shippers Fined for Hazmat Air Violations

This month, the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) proposed civil penalties for two shippers who allegedly violated US DOT hazmat shipping requirements.

$54,000 for Undeclared Flammable Liquids and Lack of Hazmat Training

FAA proposed a $54,000 hazmat penalty for a French microbiology equipment company that allegedly offered undeclared flammable liquid disinfectant spray. En route from France to Mexico, the shipment passed through Dallas-Fort Worth, where it was discovered by airline personnel.

On top of failing to properly classify, package, mark, label, and document the Class 3 hazmat shipment, the company did not provide adequate hazmat training for personnel. Lastly, the company did not include emergency repose information with the shipment, as required by the US DOT Hazardous Materials Regulations (49 CFR 171–181, et al.). 

$50,000 for Lithium Battery Violations

For allegedly transporting 142 lithium-metal batteries in an employee’s checked baggage, a North Carolina medical device company faces a $50,000 hazmat penalty. Lithium-metal batteries are forbidden from transport on passenger aircraft and may not be carried in checked baggage.

This hazmat fine underscores the importance of hazmat training for industries in which lithium batteries are integral to the business. Because so many seemingly harmless devices rely on lithium batteries, it is easy to forget that these batteries are regulated as hazardous materials under domestic and international rules. 

Knowing the relevant requirements and restrictions for shipping and transporting lithium batteries under 49 CFR, the IATA DGR, and the IMDG Code hazmat rules is crucial to avoid not only fines, but also incidents in transit, emergency landings, injury, and property damage.
 
To learn more about how lithium batteries become a hazard in air transportation, watch the video here:
VIDEO: Real Dangers of Lithium Batteries

Shipping Lithium Batteries—Now Live in North Jersey!

Full hazmat training to ship lithium batteries by ground, air, or vessel is now available as both an online course and an exclusive classroom workshop at Lion’s New Jersey Training Center. Meet US DOT, IATA DGR, and IMDG Code DG training requirements and build the knowledge and skills to keep your shipments in compliance.

Shipping Lithium Batteries Online Course

Train online anytime and benefit from exercises and interactive learning tools that help you retain what you learn. Build in-depth expertise on how to class, package, mark, label, loading, unload, and document lithium battery ground, air, and vessel shipments. Plus, get free lithium battery safety training at Lion.com when you enroll now!

Shipping Lithium Batteries Workshop—October 18

Join us at the NJ Training Center for this exclusive lithium battery hazmat training! On October 18, learn the latest rules for offering lithium batteries for ground, air, or vessel transport. Satisfy relevant training mandates for highway, air, and ocean shipping. [49 CFR 172.704, IATA DGR 1.5, and IMDG Code 1.3.1]

Personnel involved in shipping lithium batteries must know the requirements they must follow to protect themselves and the public from the risks of a lithium battery short-circuit and/or fire.  
 

Tags: DOT, fines and penalties, hazmat air shipping, hazmat training, lithium batteries