#United States #Columbia, Maryland #UL Research Institutes #Fire Safety Research #E-mobility Devices

Understanding E-mobility Fire Hazards in Passenger Railcars

In a groundbreaking new report, the UL Research Institutes' Fire Safety Research Institute has raised awareness about the fire safety challenges posed by e-mobility devices on passenger railcars. This report sheds light on lithium-ion batteries' thermal runaway incidents and their devastating potential on public transportation systems.

The Study's Findings

The report, titled Recommendations to Improve Passenger Railcar Safety During Electric Micromobility Vehicle Fires, dives deep into the specific conditions of railcars during such incidents. It meticulously investigated the effects of heat, toxic gases, and the ramifications for passenger safety and evacuation protocols when an e-mobility device—a standing e-scooter, e-bike, or seated e-scooter—catches fire. The research involved rigorous experiments conducted in a full-size intercity passenger railcar, supported by New York City's Fire Department and the Christiana Fire Company, to accurately assess the danger level.

A chilling discovery from the study revealed that passengers situated within ten feet of a burning e-mobility device could quickly become incapacitated from the intense heat generated by fire. Moreover, toxic smoke spreads rapidly; it can reach the far end of the railcar in less than a minute, rendering visibility almost nonexistent in under four minutes. Devices typically emit smoke shortly before igniting, leading to dangerous situations where passengers may fail to recognize the imminent threat until it’s too late. Measurements of toxic gas indicated that safe conditions would cease to exist within just a few minutes following ignition.

Real-World Incidents

Highlighting the urgent need for this research, Adam Barowy, principal research engineer for the Fire Safety Research Institute, noted the occurrence of previous thermal runaway incidents involving e-mobility devices in major urban settings like New York, Toronto, and Madrid. With the increasing accessibility and use of such devices, understanding these hazards is paramount.

Recommendations for Enhanced Safety

To enhance passenger safety aboard trains, the report presents several actionable recommendations:
1. Railcar Design: Implement physical modifications to create a separation between e-mobility device storage areas and passenger seating.
2. Device Policies: Enforce the use of safety certified devices, consider limits on the size of e-mobility devices allowed, and designate specific storage zones.
3. Staff Training: Provide tailored training for transit staff concerning lithium-ion batteries and how to manage related emergencies.
4. Public Education: Increase awareness among riders about the risks associated with e-mobility devices and how to mitigate them prior to boarding.

The Road Ahead

The Fire Safety Research Institute remains steadfast in its mission to understand the evolving risks posed by lithium-ion batteries, whether in e-mobility or electric vehicles. By equipping both first responders and the public with knowledge on mitigating these hazards, they aim to create safer environments in public transportation systems. For further details regarding this vital research, visit fsri.org.

About UL Research Institutes

Since 1894, UL Research Institutes has been dedicated to enhancing public safety through academic inquiry and robust data analysis. Focused on addressing global risks in fire prevention, air quality, and energy storage safety, UL Research Institutes collaborates with fire safety professionals and communities to produce viable solutions for fire safety around the world. For more information, please visit UL.org.