E-scooters and E-bikes – Rail Firms Clamp Down Amid Safety Concerns

E-bikes and e-scooters have soared in popularity in the UK over recent years, with more than 750,000 e-scooters believed to be in use. A report by Mintel estimated that 170,000 e-bikes were sold in 2020, representing a 70% rise year-on-year. They offer a faster way to travel without much effort required from the user, so it is unsurprising how popular they are.

However, there are undoubtedly some serious fire safety risks associated with this fairly new phenomenon. According to Zurich, e-bikes and e-scooters were responsible for 167 fires in the UK in 2021, indicating a 149% increase from the 67 reported in 2020. Available data for 2022 points to a further 161 reported incidents in the year to September.

E-scooters, however, are the primary safety concern. As of December 2022, 10 UK rail operators have banned them from their trains. These include TransPennine Express, Avanti West Coast, East Midlands Railway, Northern Rail, and the TFL network. The rail companies cite the risks posed by lithium-ion batteries, and state that customer and colleague safety comes first. 

E-bikes, as well as electric wheelchairs, have mostly been exempt from the bans, as they are fully legal and there is a general perception that these are less prone to being modified. 

The London Fire Brigade has published advice on e-bikes and e-scooter safety:

Reduce the risk of overheating

• Batteries can get warm during their use. Allow them to cool down before attempting to re-charge.

• Batteries should always be charged on hard flat surfaces where heat can dissipate.

• Batteries can also pose a risk if they have been damaged, so try to ensure they are not getting knocked around while in use or while being carried.

• Batteries should also never be exposed to extremes of temperature.

Follow the instructions

• Always follow manufacturers’ instructions when charging 

• Never leave it charging unattended or charge it while you are asleep.

• You should always make sure you unplug your charger once it’s finished charging.

• Always use the correct charger for your batteries and buy any replacements from a reputable seller.

Where to charge your batteries

• Never block your escape route with e-bikes or e-scooters.

• Store and charge them somewhere away from a main through route or exit.

• Make sure you and your family have an escape plan in place in the event of a fire. Always call 999, never try to fight the fire yourself.

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