E-bikes and e-scooters are becoming increasingly popular. Most are powered by lithium-ion batteries which can be charged in the home. With an increased use of e-bikes and e-scooters, comes a corresponding fire safety concern associated with their charging and storage. This popularity has led to questions being raised as tenants and patients are looking to store these e-bikes/scooters within our buildings.
What are the risks?
- E-bikes and e-scooters stem from their use of rechargeable lithium-ion batteries that can erupt into flames.
- E-bike conversion kits are available to convert standard bikes into e-bikes, but they include only the motors and control gears. Batteries must be sourced separately, often over the internet and by cost-conscious buyers, who may not consider safety issues. Cheaper batteries may be faulty.
- Batteries can also pose a risk if they have been damaged.
- E-bikes/scooters tend to be stored under stairs which not only contravenes the Fire Regulations but poses a significant risk to evacuation
- Users plug their unauthorised and untested charging leads into the premises mains electrical system which has a potential for electrical ‘brown outs’ or even causing electrical fires.
The London Fire & Rescue Service attended 116 fires involving e-bikes and e-scooters in 2022. Below are links demonstrating how easy and quickly fires can start with these even just being stored.
Due to the risk e-bikes/e-scooters MUST NOT be stored or charged within any part of a CHP building.
If tenants wish to use these devices, then they must be secured outside in a bike rack away from the building and any ignition sources.
