Rising concerns over e-bike and e-scooter fire risks prompt calls for regulatory reform

by Featured NewsSafety

New Home Office data highlights fire safety challenges with e-bikes and e-scooters

In response to newly released Home Office statistics revealing an increase in fires, fatalities, and injuries associated with e-bikes and e-scooters, leading safety authorities have expressed concern.

Phil Clark, Emerging Energy Technologies Lead for the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC), and Lesley Rudd, Chief Executive of Electrical Safety First (ESF), jointly emphasised the need for comprehensive regulatory updates to mitigate these risks.

According to the statement: “NFCC and Electrical Safety First have long been warning of the fire safety risks posed by poorly manufactured or converted e-bikes and e-scooter batteries, and have been calling for urgent regulatory and legislative changes to help keep people safe.

“Through raising awareness of these risks, we are now in a place whereby English fire and rescue services are capturing more of this information, and that will give us a clearer picture as to the scale of that risk.”

The call for enhanced safety standards and regulations

The officials noted that the current data, although conservative, suggests a significant underestimation of the problem.

Highlighting a specific example, they mentioned that “London Fire Brigade’s attendance at 179 incidents in 2023 alone” points to a larger issue.

The rapid advancement of technology, they argue, while beneficial for sustainable transportation, necessitates equally swift legislative and regulatory advancements to ensure consumer safety.

The risks associated with substandard battery and charger manufacturing practices can be severe, potentially resulting in life-threatening accidents.

The statement further outlined the critical need for multi-sectoral cooperation to address these challenges: “Tackling this worrying trend is going to take a multi-partner, multi-pronged approach.

“Industry must step up to the challenge, developing their own appropriate guidance and ensuring products are safe.”

Government’s role in ensuring product safety

The government’s involvement is deemed essential for the introduction of necessary legislative measures and product standards.

Clark and Rudd urged for the implementation of third-party safety certifications for e-bikes and e-scooters before they enter the market, akin to other high-risk products.

They also stressed the importance of regulations aimed at proper disposal methods to prevent battery-related fires in the waste industry.

Concluding their statement, they emphasised the importance of ongoing efforts to combat the sale of sub-standard products online and the use of potentially unsafe e-bike conversion kits by untrained individuals: “With an apparent increase in sub-standard products being sold online, and the emergence of e-bike conversion kits and modifications being undertaken by people without the necessary skills and knowledge, NFCC and Electrical Safety First will continue to work with partners to improve regulations and further raise public awareness in this area, aiming to reduce the risks and ultimately save lives.”

IFSJ Comment

The highlighted concerns and calls for action by NFCC and ESF bring to the forefront the critical need for robust safety measures and stringent regulatory oversight in the rapidly evolving market of e-bikes and e-scooters.

Their proactive approach not only aims to mitigate immediate fire risks but also to establish long-term safety protocols that could potentially save lives.

This issue underscores the importance of collaboration between industry leaders, government agencies, and safety organisations to enhance consumer protection and safety standards.

E-bike battery explosion sparks fire at Dubai pharmacy: Quick action by residents averts major incident

by Featured NewsMiddle East - Breaking NewsSafety

Fire breaks out at Life Pharmacy in Business Bay

A battery from an electric bike (e-bike) unexpectedly caught fire while being charged outside Life Pharmacy in Business Bay, Dubai.

This incident, which took place on 10th March 2024, alarmed local residents and bystanders who witnessed the fire rapidly escalate.

According to a cafeteria worker present at the scene: “There were a few loud bangs and the next thing you see is fire licking the glass exterior of the pharmacy.”

The quick thinking and decisive actions of passersby were crucial in controlling the situation.

Eyewitnesses and locals douse flames

Those nearby played a key role in managing the fire before it could spread further.

The same cafeteria worker detailed their response: “We hastily removed the e-bike else it would have gutted.”

A security guard at Escape Tower, where the pharmacy is located, confirmed that the fire was caused by the battery explosion.

The incident occurred at 1.30 pm and was swiftly brought under control, demonstrating the alertness and cooperative spirit of the local community in dealing with such emergencies.

Understanding the risks of e-bike batteries

While e-bikes and e-scooters are generally regarded as safe, incidents like this highlight the potential risks associated with faulty batteries and related hardware, including chargers.

The cause of e-bike fires can be traced back to both chemical and practical factors.

A thermal runaway phenomenon in lithium-ion cells can lead to an increase in battery cell temperature and pressure, producing flammable gas.

If this gas ignites due to the battery’s high temperature, it can result in a fast-spreading fire that is difficult to extinguish and releases harmful fumes.

IFSJ Comment

The prompt and effective response by Dubai residents to the e-bike battery explosion at Life Pharmacy in Business Bay serves as a reminder of the community’s role in emergency situations.

This incident emphasises the need for awareness and vigilance among users and manufacturers regarding the potential hazards of these increasingly popular modes of transportation.

Furthermore, it underscores the importance of proper maintenance and regular checks of e-bike and e-scooter batteries to prevent such occurrences.

Brigade urges Londoners to check their e-bike after banned battery causes blaze

by Featured News

London fire brigade issues safety warning following e-bike fire at hotel

The London Fire Brigade has issued a call to e-bike users to scrutinize their batteries in the wake of a fire instigated by an exploding battery, now classified as “dangerous” by the UK’s regulatory authority.

A hotel in Kensington became the scene of this incident on Friday 26 January, necessitating the intervention of approximately 25 firefighters to extinguish the blaze.

In response to a series of fires linked to the UPP battery, the Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) declared in January that it is enforcing actions against the battery’s manufacturer.

Withdrawal Notices have been dispatched to five online marketplaces and directly to 20 sellers, alongside the manufacturer based in China, instructing a halt in the supply of the UPP battery.

Official statements on the incident

Charlie Pugsley, the Brigade’s Assistant Commissioner for Fire Safety, remarked: “The recent enforcement action taken by the Office for Product Safety & Standards is a welcome step towards reducing the risk of customers being exposed to dangerous products.

“The lithium batteries that power these vehicles have failed catastrophically and caused devastating fires.

“We’re asking people to check whether they have a UPP battery at home. If you do, stop using it right away, and contact the seller.”

Graham Russell, Chief Executive of OPSS, added: “We consider these UPP batteries to be dangerous, and that is why we are taking this action to stop them being supplied.

“This fire in Kensington really emphasises why we’ve taken the action that we have.

“Consumers need to be aware of the risk of these batteries failing, and the potential fatal consequences that can occur.

“If anyone owns one, they should not use it and contact the seller for redress.”

Details of the fire and safety advice

The incident unfolded when a man, noticing his battery pack making a hissing noise and feeling unusually hot to the touch, placed it outside his hotel room.

The battery ignited about 20 minutes later, filling the corridor with smoke.

Despite his attempts to douse the fire with extinguishers, the intensity of the blaze made it uncontrollable.

Pugsley further advised: “This was a lucky escape for the occupant who inadvertently compromised his own escape route as well as others by placing it where he did in the corridor.

“If a battery is showing signs of failing, such as if it’s too hot, leave it alone and raise the alarm.

“In this case, the occupant picked the battery up before later trying to put out the fire using extinguishers.

“You should never try and tackle a lithium battery fire. Instead, get away and call 999.”

The London Fire Brigade has observed a 78 per cent increase in e-bike fires in 2023 compared to the previous year, with 155 e-bike fires and 28 e-scooter fires reported, resulting in three fatalities and approximately 60 injuries.

In light of these figures, the Brigade launched its #ChargeSafe campaign to promote awareness of the fire risks associated with e-bikes and e-scooters, providing safety tips for users.

IFSJ Comment

The London Fire Brigade’s cautionary appeal to e-bike users underscores the escalating concerns surrounding lithium battery safety.

The recent hotel fire in Kensington, attributed to a banned battery, accentuates the necessity for rigorous compliance with safety standards and regulations.

The proactive measures by the Office for Product Safety and Standards, including enforcement actions against the manufacturer of the UPP battery, highlight the critical need for vigilance and consumer awareness in mitigating fire risks.

As e-bikes and e-scooters gain popularity, the imperative for comprehensive safety protocols and education becomes more evident.

The Brigade’s #ChargeSafe campaign and the advice offered are instrumental in fostering a culture of safety and responsibility among users.

This incident serves as a reminder of the potential hazards associated with improper use and storage of lithium batteries, underscoring the importance of adhering to safety guidelines to prevent similar incidents.

Office for Product Safety Standards takes action over e-bike batteries

by Featured NewsSafety

The UK’s Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) has taken decisive action against a hazardous e-bike battery, prompting significant attention in the realm of consumer safety.

This move comes in response to multiple fires linked to the UPP-manufactured battery.

OPSS takes enforcement action against dangerous e-bike battery

In a proactive response, the OPSS has issued Withdrawal Notices to four online marketplaces and 20 sellers, mandating the cessation of supply for the UPP battery.

Additionally, a notice was dispatched to the China-based manufacturer.

These steps signify the OPSS’s commitment to safeguarding consumers from potential harm.

Public safety prioritised in response to e-bike battery fires

The authorities have strongly advised consumers against using the UPP battery.

For those in possession of the product, the guidance is to contact the seller for redress.

Proper disposal is recommended at local recycling centres, though consumers should verify acceptance of such items at these facilities.

OPSS emphasises consumer awareness in safety measures

Graham Russell, Chief Executive of OPSS, highlighted the inherent dangers of these batteries and underscored the importance of heightened consumer awareness.

He said: “The safety of consumers is of the utmost importance, and we are committed to ensuring that dangerous products are removed from the market.”

IFSJ Comment

The OPSS’s action against the hazardous e-bike battery by UPP underscores the critical role of regulatory bodies in monitoring and acting on potentially dangerous consumer products.

This case serves as a reminder of the risks associated with certain technological advancements, particularly in emerging markets like e-bikes.

The swift response by the OPSS reflects a growing global emphasis on consumer safety and the proactive measures needed to protect the public.

The importance of such regulatory actions cannot be overstated, as they not only prevent immediate harm but also set a precedent for industry standards and consumer expectations.

Rising battery fires prompt stark safety warning for e-bikes and scooters

by Featured NewsSafety

UK sees quadrupled rate of lithium battery fires

Trading Standards in the UK have issued a severe warning about the safety of e-bikes and e-scooters, especially as the festive season approaches.

This caution comes in light of a worrying increase in fires related to lithium-ion batteries used in these devices.

In the past three years, the UK has seen these fires quadruple, now occurring at a rate of at least six a week.

National figures are disturbing, with 190 people injured and 10 fatalities since 2020 due to these fires​​.

Safety measures and guidelines stressed by authorities

The Office for Product and Safety Standards (OPSS) recommends several critical steps for purchasing, using, and charging e-bikes and e-scooters.

These include buying from known sellers, following manufacturer instructions, using manufacturer-recommended batteries or chargers, charging safely, and not tampering with the battery​​.

Councillor Ron Shepherd, Portfolio Holder for Safer and Stronger Communities in North East Lincolnshire, emphasised the importance of adhering to safety guidelines.

He warned about the risks of charging these devices in homes and urged buyers to purchase from reputable dealers​​.

Identifying and responding to battery failures

Users are advised to immediately stop using or charging their battery if they notice signs of overheating, deformation, unusual noise, smell, poor performance, or smoke.

In case of fire or smoke, it is vital to raise the alarm, evacuate, and call emergency services.

Faulty chargers or batteries should also be reported to the Citizens Advice Consumer Service​​.

Charging and maintenance tips

Charging e-bikes and e-scooters safely involves avoiding bedrooms or blocked escape routes, not leaving batteries charging unattended, avoiding overloading sockets, and not charging near combustible materials.

Regular inspection of the devices for damage or signs of battery failure is also crucial​​.

Buying considerations and disposal of batteries

When purchasing these devices, it is important to buy only from reputable retailers and manufacturers, ensuring they comply with UK safety standards.

Disposing of lithium-ion batteries requires special care, as they should not be mixed with regular rubbish or recycling due to fire risks​​.

E-bike conversion kits and legal use

For those considering converting standard bicycles into e-bikes, professional installation is recommended.

Self-installation can lead to safety issues and may invalidate warranties.

Additionally, in the UK, only e-scooters participating in official rental trials are legal on roads.

Unauthorised use can lead to fines and other penalties​​.

IFSJ Comment

The increasing number of lithium battery fires linked to e-bikes and e-scooters is a significant concern for fire safety and public health.

These incidents highlight the critical need for heightened awareness and adherence to safety guidelines.

The UK’s proactive approach in issuing clear safety standards and recommendations is commendable.

This issue underscores the importance of responsible manufacturing and informed consumer behaviour in mitigating fire risks associated with emerging technologies.

As e-bikes and e-scooters gain popularity, their safe usage becomes paramount, necessitating ongoing public education and stringent safety regulations.

London Fire Brigade Issues E-Bike Safety Warning Ahead of Black Friday

by Featured NewsSafety

In light of the upcoming Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales, the London Fire Brigade has issued a stark warning about the dangers of purchasing e-bikes and e-scooters, following a year that saw a record number of related fires in the capital.

Record-breaking year for e-bike and e-scooter fires

2023 has been a particularly hazardous year for e-bike and e-scooter fires in London.

The London Fire Brigade reported attending 142 e-bike fires and 28 e-scooter blazes, marking a 47% increase compared to 2022.

Tragically, these incidents have resulted in 3 deaths and approximately 60 injuries.

The perils of online bargains

The Brigade attributes many of these incidents to faulty or counterfeit products, often purchased from online marketplaces.

This includes chargers, batteries, and conversion kits for e-bikes and e-scooters.

With Black Friday (24 November) and Cyber Monday (27 November) approaching, there is concern that more dangerous, unregulated products could be purchased, posing a risk to consumers’ homes and safety.

Assistant Commissioner for Fire Safety, Charlie Pugsley, emphasised the significant fire risk posed by e-bikes and e-scooters, especially those that are second-hand or have been modified with online parts.

He noted the lack of regulation for products sold online and urged consumers to be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true.

Consumer advice from the Brigade

The Brigade strongly advises purchasing e-bikes, e-scooters, batteries, chargers, and conversion kits from reputable sellers.

It’s crucial to use the correct charger and have e-bike conversions done professionally.

Consumers should look for the UKCA or CE mark on products, ensuring they meet UK and EU safety standards.

Personal accounts and official advice

Hayley O’Keefe’s family had a narrow escape from an e-bike fire at their home in Tulse Hill.

The e-bike, purchased second-hand from an online marketplace, caught fire.

O’Keefe now advocates for more stringent regulation of online sales of these products.

Phil Jenkins, Product Safety Lead Officer at London Trading Standards, recommends buying from physical retailers and being wary of online offers, particularly for chargers, batteries, and conversion kits.

The need for stricter regulations

The Brigade has called for urgent research into e-bike conversion kits and stricter legislation for batteries and chargers.

Next week, Deputy Commissioner Dom Ellis, firefighters, and Deputy Mayor for Fire & Resilience, Baroness Fiona Twycross, will discuss this emerging issue with MPs as part of the Brigade’s #ChargeSafe safety awareness campaign.

Safety tips for e-bike and e-scooter users

The Brigade advises users to store e-bikes and e-scooters away from escape routes, avoid modifying or tampering with batteries, and purchase batteries and chargers that meet UK safety standards.

Users should also be vigilant for signs of battery or charger malfunction and always use the correct charger.

The Brigade also recommends fitting smoke alarms in areas where these vehicles are charged.

IFSJ Comment

The London Fire Brigade’s warning ahead of Black Friday underscores the growing concern over the safety of e-bikes and e-scooters, especially those sourced from unregulated online marketplaces.

As consumer interest in these eco-friendly transport options surges, it becomes imperative to balance affordability with safety.

The Brigade’s advice and the personal experiences shared highlight the potential dangers associated with these modern conveniences.

This issue not only calls for heightened consumer awareness but also for a more robust regulatory framework to safeguard public safety.

The upcoming discussions at the Houses of Parliament mark a crucial step towards addressing these concerns and hopefully will lead to more stringent safety standards and regulations.

UK bike trade backs ESF e-bike fire safety recommendations amidst rising concerns

by Featured NewsSafety

The UK cycle industry, represented by the Bicycle Association (BA) and the Association of Cycle Traders (ACT), has recently expressed its support for new fire safety recommendations concerning e-bikes and e-scooters.

These proposals, put forward by Electrical Safety First (ESF), emphasize the need for stricter controls and third-party certification for e-bike and e-scooter batteries.

E-Bike fire safety: Support for enhanced safety measures

Peter Eland, the technical and policy director of BA, highlighted the industry’s alignment with ESF’s focus on public safety.

He stressed the importance of the Government acting swiftly to tackle the root causes of the recent increase in fires associated with e-scooters and e-bikes.

Eland emphasised that while mandatory third-party testing is a crucial part of the solution, it needs to be complemented by stricter enforcement of product safety for overseas-supplied products, often sold via online marketplaces.

Recommendations by ESF

ESF’s report, ‘Battery Breakdown – Why are e-scooter and e-bike batteries exploding in people’s homes and what can be done about it?’ includes recommendations such as banning ‘universal’ e-bike chargers and setting safety standards for conversion kits.

Eland pointed out the risks associated with the app-based food delivery sector, where bicycles are often converted to e-bikes using kits sourced from overseas, posing significant fire safety risks.

Proposed bill amendments and public awareness

Eland expressed BA’s readiness to collaborate with ESF on amendments to the proposed Bill to address these safety concerns.

He proposed more practical arrangements for mandatory approval of e-bikes and batteries, noting the lack of a transition period in the ESF Bill, which could lead to a halt in sales while suppliers wait for approvals.

Government’s role in product safety

The BA appreciates the public awareness brought by ESF’s proposal and acknowledges the ongoing efforts of the Government’s Office for Product Safety and Standards in developing evidence-based regulatory actions.

Eland hopes for a comprehensive package of measures to effectively tackle the issue of battery fires.

Industry initiative to distinguish safe e-bikes

A joint BA and ACT initiative aims to increase industry and consumer awareness about the differences between generally safe e-bikes and those at higher risk of fire.

This initiative counters misleading media headlines and provides factual information about e-bike safety.

Rising popularity and associated fire risks

The increasing popularity of e-bikes and e-scooters, predominantly powered by lithium-ion batteries, has led to a corresponding rise in fire safety concerns.

The London Fire Brigade reported a significant increase in fires caused by these devices, from eight in 2019 to fifty-nine by December 2021.

On occasions, these batteries can fail catastrophically, potentially leading to explosions and rapid fire development​​​​.

Safety guidelines for charging, storage, and purchase

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) provides key safety guidelines for e-bike and e-scooter users.

These include following manufacturer instructions for charging and storage, avoiding charging or storing near combustible materials, buying products from reputable retailers, and being cautious of counterfeit goods.

Additionally, they advise regular battery checks for damage and proper disposal of damaged or end-of-life batteries to prevent fires​​.

IFSJ Comment

The growing concern over e-bike and e-scooter fire safety underlines the critical need for a collaborative approach between industry bodies, safety organizations, and the government.

The proactive stance of the BA and ACT, alongside ESF’s recommendations, demonstrates a commitment to addressing these risks effectively.

This situation not only highlights the importance of rigorous safety standards and enforcement but also underscores the role of public awareness in preventing accidents. #

The increase in e-bike and e-scooter fires is a stark reminder of the evolving challenges in fire safety management.

As the popularity of these convenient modes of transportation rises, so does the responsibility of manufacturers, retailers, and consumers to prioritize safety.

The collaborative efforts seen in the UK can serve as a model for other countries facing similar challenges, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive and multi-faceted approach to fire safety.

E-bike fires in London reach a new record high

by Featured NewsSafety

In a concerning development this year, firefighters in London have addressed more e-bike and e-scooter fires than in the entirety of 2022.

This now marks e-bike incidents as the city’s most rapidly growing fire-related concern.

A closer look at the numbers

By the close of August, there were 104 e-bike fires reported, in addition to 19 e-scooter incidents.

This statistic surpasses the total of 116 fires managed in the previous year.

Tragically, three lives have been claimed this year from incidents suspected to stem from e-bike lithium battery malfunctions, resulting in an additional 51 injuries.

There’s been a subsequent plea from a coroner to the Office for Product Standards and Safety (OPSS) to instigate further safety protocols, stemming from a fatal e-bike incident in March.

Why are e-bikes and e-scooters catching fire?

E-bikes and e-scooters are prone to sudden fires if their lithium batteries sustain damage or start to malfunction.

While purchasing privately owned e-scooters is not illegal, using them in public spaces and on London roads is prohibited.

London Fire Brigade remains an ally of police enforcement activities, ensuring these vehicles are not employed hazardously.

E-bike fire awareness and safety campaigns

London Fire Brigade’s #ChargeSafe initiative is striving to educate the public about potential fire hazards and providing guidance on self-preservation.

Recently, an e-bike fire in Brixton necessitated a man’s hospitalisation for burn treatment.

Senior fire officials in London are advocating for the introduction of standardised regulations pertaining to e-bikes, their conversion kits, batteries, and chargers.

They are also seeking stringent oversight of online marketplaces where products might not conform to existing safety norms.

From the Brigade’s perspective, purchasing e-bikes from reputable sellers ensures the product’s compliance with safety standards.

Contrarily, e-bikes or e-scooters fitted with independently bought batteries or components pose a heightened risk.

International regulations and perspectives

In New York, legislative measures are underway to ban the sales, lease, or rental of e-bikes, e-scooters, and related batteries that do not fulfil recognised safety criteria.

Deputy Commissioner Dom Ellis remarked on the growing frequency of e-bike and e-scooter fires in London, highlighting the environmental merits of these vehicles, but also shedding light on the hazards, particularly when modified with substandard components or mismatched chargers.

The Commissioner emphasised the pressing need for in-depth research into battery fires and their causes, and for a stringent regulatory framework to curtail the influx of potentially dangerous products on online platforms.

In-depth analysis of recent fires

An in-depth review of the 73 e-bike fires from the year’s first half reveals that approximately 40% involved a converted e-bike.

Worryingly, around 77% likely involved battery failures – with cheaper, online-sourced batteries, which may not be in line with UK safety protocols, being the major culprits.

Furthermore, about 41% of the incidents occurred while the bikes were charging.

Official advice and guidance

Deputy Commissioner Ellis further emphasised the severity and potential harm of such fires, providing critical advice on safe storage and charging.

Safety guidelines for e-bike and e-scooter users have also been released, focussing on safe storage, not meddling with batteries, proper charging protocols, and ensuring all components meet UK safety standards.

IFSJ Comment

The surge in e-bike and e-scooter fires in London offers a pressing reminder of the challenges that come with emerging technologies.

As e-bikes and e-scooters become more prevalent due to their environmental advantages and convenience, it’s paramount that safety regulations and awareness campaigns keep pace.

The consequences of neglecting this can be fatal.

The report’s findings provide a critical resource for fire safety professionals globally, urging a proactive stance towards addressing potential hazards tied to these popular vehicles.

New York City considers e-bike ban for public housing amid fire safety concerns

by Featured NewsSafety

The New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) is considering a new rule that would ban e-bikes and e-scooters from all its properties amid concerns over fire safety.

According to the New York City Fire Department (FDNY), battery-powered electric bicycles and scooters have caused more than 75 fires in New York City so far this year, putting the city on estimate for nearly 190 e-bike or e-scooter fires in 2022. Last year, the department reported 104 fires, killing four people. 

“The numbers increase weekly. That’s how active this issue is,” said Joe Jardin, chief of fire prevention at FDNY. “It’s scary, frankly, how fast the environment in the fire area diminishes, how severe the fire becomes in a matter of a second or two.”

In an email to NFPA Journal, a NYCHA spokesperson wrote: “NYCHA is considering the adoption of a new rule that would prohibit e-bikes and related devices from its properties, including residents’ apartments and public and private spaces throughout all developments. This proposed new rule is open for public comment until July 10, 2022, at which time NYCHA will review stakeholder feedback and amend the rule accordingly.”

 In April, the city’s Fire Code was amended to include language on e-bikes and e-scooters. The code now requires e-bike and e-scooter charging equipment to comply with standards published by Underwriters Laboratories as well as enhanced fire protection measures for rooms where six or more e-bikes or e-scooters are being charged or stored. These measures include fire sprinklers, spacing between devices, dedicated electrical receptacles, and fire-rated walls and doors.

The new NYCHA proposal would take things even further with a total ban of e-bikes and e-scooters in the city’s public housing properties.