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Interpretation Response #02-0261 ([Pride Mobility Products Corporation] [Robert Aulisio])

Below is the interpretation response detail and a list of regulations sections applicable to this response.

Interpretation Response Details

Response Publish Date:

Company Name: Pride Mobility Products Corporation

Individual Name: Robert Aulisio

Location State: PA Country: US

View the Interpretation Document

Response text:

Oct 11, 2002

Mr. Robert Aulisio                 Reference No. 02-0261

Pride Corporate Safety Director

Pride Mobility Products Corporation

182 Susquehanna Avenue

Exeter, PA 18643-2694

Dear Mr. Aulisio:

This is in response to your September 19, 2002 letter requesting clarification of the provisions in § 173.220 of the Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR; 49 CFR parts 171-180).  Specifically, you ask if a non-spillable battery contained in a wheelchair is subject to the requirements of the HMR.

The answer is no, battery powered wheelchairs and mobility aids equipped with a non-spillable wet electric storage battery and containing no other hazardous materials are not subject to the requirements of the HMR when transported by rail, highway or vessel.  The non-spillable battery must meet the criteria in § 173.159(d) and must be marked "NONSPILLABLE" or "NONSPILLABLE BATTERY."  In addition, the battery must be securely installed and fastened in an upright position, and properly protected from short circuits when contained in the equipment.

I hope this satisfies your request.

Sincerely,

Hattie L. Mitchell

Chief, Regulatory Review and Reinvention

Office of Hazardous Materials Standards

173.220

Regulation Sections