Firefighter says e-bike battery blaze could have been ‘much worse’ as calls grow for regulation
The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) is backing proposals by charity Electrical Safety First for the batteries to be regulated like fireworks and heavy machinery, which require third-party approval before going on sale. For the full article click here!
E-BIKE SAFETY TIPS FROM LONDON FIRE BRIGADE
Do not attempt to modify or tamper with your battery
Converting pedal bikes into e-bikes using DIY kits bought online can be very dangerous
Check your battery and charger meets UK safety standards
Always use the correct charger and buy an official one from a reputable seller
Let the battery cool before charging
Unplug your charger once it’s finished charging
Fit alarms where you charge
Never block your escape route with anything
HOW TO RECYLCE OR DISPOSE OF BATTERIES SAFELY
Place used batteries in a sealed sandwich/freezer bag
Keep batteries out of the sun
Try to use rechargeable batteries instead of single-use ones where possible – this reduces the number of batteries that are discarded
Never put batteries in your general rubbish bin or recycle them with other recyclable materials
Try to sell or donate working, but unwanted, battery-powered electronic items instead of throwing them away
Local shops and supermarkets have plastic containers for public use or your local Household Waste Recycling Centre (HWRC)
Check with your local council for guidance on the disposal of batteries
President of IOSH 2008, Institute of Occupational Safety and Health
I am pleased that you are helping dispel some of the dafter myths that surround OH&S (a passion you and I clearly have in common) and the item clearly indicates that as with so many of our professional colleagues you are not about stopping fun on the pretext of H&S. It is only with the help of people such as yourself that we will eventually get the message across that OH&S is about bringing (as you so aptly put it) purpose and value to peoples lives
