Compliance Countdown: November 2014

Nov. 18, 2014

Criteria for Portable Oxygen Concentrators

This proposed rulemaking would establish in SFAR 106 acceptance criteria for portable oxygen concentrators used by passengers in all Part 121 and 135 operations, as well as Part 125 aircraft with a seating capacity of more than 20 passengers or a max payload of at least 6,000 pounds. Currently, the FAA assesses each portable oxygen concentrator case-by-case to determine whether it is safe for use. This rulemaking would replace this burdensome approval process with acceptance criteria and a requirement for manufacturers to demonstrate compliance by affixing a label on the exterior of the portable device. Units currently approved would not be affected by this proposal. Comments are due by November 18.

Nov. 24, 2014

Helideck and Aviation Fuel Safety for Offshore Platforms

An Advance NPRM from the Department of Interior’s Bureau of Safety and Environment (BSEE) seeks to improve safety for operations of helicopters and helidecks on fixed offshore facilities. Specifically, BSEE invites comments on whether to incorporate certain industry and/or international standards for design, construction and maintenance of offshore helidecks, as well as standards for aviation fuel quality, storage and handling. The BSEE also wants information on past accidents or incidents involving helidecks, helicopters or aviation fuel on or near platforms. Comments on the proposal are due November 24.

Jan. 1, 2015

Aircraft Maintenance Remains Off New OSHA Exemption List

OSHA issued a final rule, effective Jan. 1, 2015, updating the appendix of industries partially exempt from reporting and recording requirements because they have relatively low occupational injury and illness rates. Aviation-related industries remain non-exempt. The final rule also revises requirements for reporting work-related fatality, injury and illness information. The current regulation requires employers to report work-related fatalities and in-patient hospitalizations of three or more employees within eight hours of the event. The new regulation requires employers to report all work-related in-patient hospitalizations, as well as amputations and losses of an eye, to OSHA within 24 hours of the event.

Feb. 6, 2015

Lithium Battery Transportation Requirements Stiffened

To prevent lithium battery fires and explosions, the FAA is modifying the requirements governing their carriage as cargo. This final rule revises hazard communication and packaging procedures and harmonizes Hazardous Materials Regulations with applicable provisions of the United Nations, ICAO and the International Maritime Dangerous Goods organization. The new rules have a compliance deadline of Feb. 6, 2015.