FMCSA issues warning on Samsung Galaxy Note7

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has issued a safety advisory to provide notice and information to owners, operators and passengers of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) regarding the risks and regulations associated with transporting damaged, defective, or recalled lithium cells or batteries or portable electronic devices, including the Samsung Galaxy Note7 smartphone devices recently recalled by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). According to the CPSC, the lithium-ion battery in the Samsung Galaxy Note7 smartphones can overheat and catch fire, posing a serious burn and fire hazard. The recall affects nearly two million Samsung Galaxy Note7 smartphones. FMCSA is not banning the Samsung Galaxy Note7 on a CMV, but it recommends that everyone carrying the devices on a CMV take the following precautions:

• Turn off the device;

• Disconnect the device from any charging equipment;

• Disable all applications that could inadvertently activate the phone (e.g., alarm clock);

• Protect the power switch to prevent its unintentional activation; and

• Keep the device in carry-on baggage or on your person. Do not store in an inaccessible baggage compartment.

The Samsung Galaxy Note7 as cargo -- as part of the recall, for example -- is governed by the Federal Hazardous Materials Regulations (49 CFR 173.21(b)) and can only be transported if packages in order to prevent sparks or dangerous heat. A special permit or approval by the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Administration is required..

For a copy of the safety advisory, click here.