Tampering or Altering Equipment – June 6, 2008

Maintenance & Engineering (M&E) advised us recently they discovered 3 777 a/c where carpet tape, gum and other items were found covering the smoke detector, lights and vents in the crew bunks. Crewmembers need to understand the many hazards that are being created when covering the lights, detectors and vents. Any alteration or tampering with this equipment, particularly the smoke detectors may render them inoperable thus jeopardizing the safety of all onboard the aircraft. Federal Law prohibits tampering with smoke detectors on commercial aircraft. This applies to smoke detectors in the lavs and crew bunk areas. Any crewmember found tampering with the smoke detectors in the bunk area is subject to personal fines and/or prosecution.

Important to note: if M&E is unable to repair any damage to the crew bunks they may be placarded INOP and unusable for F/A crew rest during the flight. Please immediately refrain from tampering or altering the equipment in the crew bunk area.