Dorset train operator bans e-scooters
A train operator serving Dorset will ban e-scooters across its stations and trains from next week. (Image: NQ)
A train operator serving Dorset will ban e-scooters across its stations and trains from next week.
South Western Railway (SWR) will introduce the ban from Thursday, June 1 over fire concerns.
The new rule, which follows similar bans at other train operators, has been introduced as e-scooters pose a fire risk due to the potential of their lithium-ion batteries overheating, SWR said.
While the chances of a fire are small, there have been recent incidents of e-scooters catching fire on other forms of public transport, it added.
SWR, which provides trains to Weymouth and Dorchester, has also confirmed that customers will not be permitted to charge the devices at stations or on trains, and that they will not be accepted as lost property.
The ban also covers e-unicycles, e-skateboards and hoverboards - but electric wheelchairs and e-bikes are exempt from the ban, as are mobility scooters.
Non-electric scooters are allowed on trains as before, the train operator confirmed.
The train operator said that e-scooters will be banned until 'greater regulation and testing can be brought in' regarding them.
SWR has urged its customers to check with staff if they are unsure about what they can bring on to the trains.
Jane Lupson, SWR’s head of safety, said: "Reports of incidents involving e-scooters catching fire on National Rail services or infrastructure are increasing and the potential risk that they pose is not acceptable to our customers and colleagues.
“After some consideration, and in line with other partners in the rail industry, we will be banning e-scooters on our trains and at our stations from Thursday, June 1.
“We understand that these devices are popular, but the safety of our customers and staff is our number one priority, so until greater regulation and testing can be brought in to ensure the safety of those travelling on trains, e-scooters will remain banned.”
For more information, visit southwesternrailway.com[1]
References
- ^ southwesternrailway.com (southwesternrailway.com)