TransPennine Express (TPE) has joined several other train operators in the UK in banning all electric scooters (e-scooters), hoverboards, and e-skateboards from its trains and stations amid fire safety concerns.
Introduced on 27 December 2022, the ban is similar to the one implemented by Northern earlier in the month. With the rise in the number of fires at stations and platforms, concerns have been mounting amongst many UK train operators over the fire risks posed by lithium-ion batteries found in e-scooters and similar devices.
Other operators and transport authorities that have introduced similar bans include East Midlands Railway, Avanti West Coast, Grand Central, LNER, Lumo, Transport for London, Transport for Wales, and the Tyne and Wear Metro. The temporary ban issued by Avanti West Coast is to ensure the safety of staff and customers until better regulations around e-scooters are introduced. Currently, in the UK, it is illegal to use these devices in public places.
Notably, mobility scooters, electric wheelchairs and e-bikes are exempt from the TPE ruling. Iain Peacock, Head of Safety and Security at TPE, said: “At TransPennine Express the safety of our customers and colleagues comes first.
“The risks associated with e-scooters and similar devices are of significant concern. Most of these devices are not approved for use in the UK, and the batteries are often unregulated.
“We ask our customers to adhere to these new rules and be kind to our staff helping to enforce them, so we can keep everyone safe.”
Lithium-ion batteries have been flagged as being particularly dangerous because they can produce a vapour of toxic gases and lead to a fire or a risk of explosion if damaged or overheated. These types of batteries can also be found in various other household items, and many Fire and Rescue Services across the UK have been warning residents about their safe use and disposal.
This article will be updated with more information at a later date.