January 1 saw the implementation of new measures to reduce the risk caused by carrying lithium batteries. The new International Air Transport Association (Iata) Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) restrict passengers and crew from travelling with more than 15 portable electronic devices (PEDs), and a maximum of 20 spare batteries. Previously there were no limits on how many PEDs and batteries passengers could carry, where the lithium batteries did not exceed the standard limits of 2g for lithium metal batteries or 100 watt-hours for lithium ion batteries. Dave Brennan, Iata assistant director, cargo, safety and standards, says the new restrictions are necessary to minimise the risk caused by having too many lithium batteries on board. If passengers need to go over the limit for any reason, they will have to gain approval from their airline. This could be, for example, a passenger with a hearing aid who needs to carry a pack of spare button cell batteries. “These pose no significant risk at all,” Brennan explains. “Another example is camera crews who need to move with larger numbers of spare batteries. We see that as reasonable.” A further significant change to the regulations concerns the packaging of lithium batteries as cargo. The revisions prevent lithium batteries being packed with other dangerous goods, such as flammable liquids, solids, and gases.
