A report set to go before the Toronto Transit Commission board is proposing a seasonal ban on electric bikes and scooters due to potential fire hazards. The recommendation seeks to ban lithium-ion battery powered mobility devices from TTC vehicles and stations between Nov. 15 and April 15 each year. This decision comes months after the TTC board directed staff to investigate fire safety issues following an e-bike fire on a subway train last New Year’s Eve.
Fire crews and police determined that the blaze that injured the e-bike owner was caused by a lithium-ion battery failure. The report explains that the fire risk is higher when temperatures fluctuate, as moving lithium-ion batteries from cold to warm areas can lead to condensation and lithium plating. Despite the benefits of using these transportation devices to reduce traffic congestion and promote sustainability, the TTC’s primary goal is to ensure the safety of its employees and customers.
The ban would not apply to electric wheelchairs or other mobility devices used by people with disabilities, some of which are powered by lithium-ion batteries. Toronto Fire Services have expressed concern over the increasing number of fires involving e-bikes and similar devices. Recently, crews responded to a fire involving several e-bikes in the parking garage of a residential building, resulting in one person being taken to the hospital. The investigation into the cause of the fire is currently ongoing.
The TTC report highlights the importance of addressing fire safety issues related to lithium-ion battery powered mobility devices. The seasonal ban aims to reduce the risk of fires caused by these devices during periods of fluctuating temperatures. While acknowledging the benefits of using electric bikes and scooters, the TTC prioritizes the safety of its employees and customers. The exemption for electric wheelchairs and mobility devices used by individuals with disabilities demonstrates a balanced approach to implementing the proposed ban.
The proposal to ban electric bikes and scooters during specific months is based on the understanding that the risk of fires increases when lithium-ion batteries are exposed to varying temperatures. Moving these batteries from cold to warm areas can result in condensation and lithium plating, leading to potential fire hazards. By implementing this seasonal ban, the TTC aims to mitigate the risk of fires caused by mobility devices powered by lithium-ion batteries, while still allowing access to essential devices for individuals with disabilities.
The recent incidents involving e-bike fires in the city have further underscored the need for addressing fire safety concerns related to lithium-ion battery powered mobility devices. The report emphasizes the growing concern among fire crews and police regarding the safety risks associated with e-bikes and similar devices. By taking proactive measures such as proposing a seasonal ban, the TTC demonstrates its commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of its employees and customers. The ongoing investigation into the cause of the recent e-bike fire in a residential building highlights the urgency of addressing these issues to prevent future incidents and protect the community.
