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.