Dangerous Goods and Hazardous Materials
The regulatory basis
Dangerous goods rules derive from ICAO Technical Instructions and IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations, adopted by Bahrain CAA. Cabin crew must know the classes of dangerous goods, forbidden items, and the passenger provisions for lithium batteries, spare batteries, e-cigarettes, and medical oxygen.
What passengers may carry
Know that spare lithium batteries must be in carry-on baggage, terminals protected, and that e-cigarettes are forbidden in checked baggage and must not be used on board. Know the limits for medical oxygen and the requirement for operator approval.
Traps in questions
- Assuming all batteries are allowed in checked baggage; spare lithium batteries are carry-on only.
- Forgetting that e-cigarettes are prohibited in checked baggage.
- Confusing the class numbers (Class 1 explosives, Class 3 flammable liquids, Class 9 miscellaneous).
- Not recognising that a damaged or recalled battery must be refused.
Rule of thumb
If a battery is damaged, swollen, or recalled, refuse carriage and report it. When unsure, treat the item as forbidden until confirmed.
Worked example
A question asks where a passenger should stow a spare lithium power bank. The answer is in the cabin, protected from short circuit, not in checked baggage.