East Midlands Rail (EMR) has said all e-scooters, hoverboards and e-skateboards will be banned from its trains from the beginning of next week (19 December).
They say it’s due to the potential safety threats posed by the lithium-ion batteries used to power the scooters.
Recent incidents caused by faulty, or unregulated, lithium-ion have seen them catch alight from a ‘runaway’ chemical reaction in the battery.
As there is no way of extinguishing a fire until the chemical reaction has finished, a large amount of potentially toxic smoke is emitted, along with jets of flame, are often produced which could cause a fire or serious harm to passengers and staff.
Katie Arthur, Head of Safety at East Midlands Railway, said: “After some consideration, and in line with other partners in the rail industry, we are bringing in a ban on e-scooters, hoverboards and e-skateboards from December 19.
“These devices, which are often not approved for use in the UK, pose a potential risk as they contain lithium-ion batteries that are sometimes known to overheat.
“We understand that these devices are popular, but the safety of our customers and staff is our number one priority.”
Electric wheelchairs and e-bikes are exempt from the ban – as are mobility scooters for those with access needs.
EMR’s Connect service runs through Bedford station which is operated by Thameslink.
Thameslink currently allows e-scooters on trains if they can be folded. A spokesperson for Govia Thameslink Railway said: “We’re assessing the risks and hazards of e-scooters in line with guidance from the Rail Delivery Group which will determine our course of action.”
