Regulations governing the transportation of chemical oxygen generators have recently been revised.

A chemical oxygen generator is a device containing chemicals that upon activation release oxygen as a product of a chemical reaction. Chemical oxygen generators are found in a number different devices, such as passenger service units (PSU) for aircraft and portable breathing equipment.

The requirements for chemical oxygen generators were revised in a final rule issued under HM-224B. As provided in § 173.168 a competent authority is no longer required for chemical oxygen generators when shipped in accordance with the provisions contained in this section. The final rule authorizes voluntary compliance until October 1, 2008, at which time these provisions go into full effect. Until this date, you may either choose to be in voluntary compliance with the new regulations, choose to obtain a competent authority approval or renew an existing competent authority approval.

After October 1, 2008, no new or renewed competent authority approvals will be issued for chemical oxygen generators shipped in compliance with the provisions in § 173.168.

Questions?
Send email to approvals@dot.gov or call 202-366-4535.