UK government publishes lithium-ion battery safety guidelines for e-bikes
Statutory guidelines issued for lithium-ion battery safety in e-bikes
The Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) has released new statutory guidelines to address safety concerns surrounding lithium-ion batteries used in e-bikes.
These guidelines, developed under the General Product Safety Regulations 2005 (GPSR), aim to assist businesses producing, importing, or distributing e-bike batteries to ensure their safety.
According to OPSS, at least 10 fatalities and nearly 200 fires in the UK during 2023 were linked to lithium-ion battery-related incidents in e-bikes or e-scooters.
Mitigating thermal runaway risks
Thermal runaway, a process where battery cells overheat uncontrollably, has been identified as a major fire risk associated with lithium-ion batteries.
The guidelines emphasise the inclusion of safety mechanisms, such as battery management systems, to prevent thermal runaway during normal use or foreseeable misuse.
Producers must ensure batteries are equipped with protective features to detect and address over-voltage, over-current, and unsafe temperatures.
Distributors are also required to verify that products meet these safety requirements before placing them on the market.
Legal compliance and enforcement measures
The GPSR mandates that all consumer products, including lithium-ion batteries for e-bikes, meet general safety requirements.
Producers and distributors must ensure their products are free from risks or present minimal risks when used as intended.
Non-compliance with the GPSR may lead to enforcement actions by OPSS or local authorities, including recalls, product withdrawals, and possible prosecution.
Criminal sanctions may also be imposed where breaches are deemed severe.
Responsibilities of producers and distributors
Producers must conduct safety assessments, monitor product performance, and supply adequate information to consumers regarding safe usage.
Distributors are obligated to act with due care, ensuring that only compliant and safe products reach the market.
Both groups must cooperate with enforcement authorities by providing documentation or addressing risks identified in their products.
UK Government publishes lithium-ion battery safety guidelines for e-bikes: Summary
The UK government, via the Office for Product Safety and Standards, has issued statutory guidelines to improve the safety of lithium-ion batteries used in e-bikes.
These measures are aimed at addressing fire risks caused by thermal runaway.
Producers and distributors are required to incorporate safety mechanisms, comply with the General Product Safety Regulations, and cooperate with enforcement authorities.
Non-compliance may result in sanctions, including recalls, withdrawals, or prosecution.
The guidelines are applicable across Great Britain and are strongly recommended for Northern Ireland markets.
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UK government publishes lithium-ion battery safety guidelines for e-bikes, source
