Workplace Fire Door Concerns Exposed as E-Scooter Charging Increases Risk

The British Woodworking Federation (BWF) has warned that the surge in lithium-ion battery fires from e-bikes and e-scooters, in combination with poor fire door maintenance, could put lives and property at risk across the UK.

New research, carried out as part of Fire Door Safety Week has revealed a sharp rise in public concern about the fire risks posed by lithium-ion batteries, particularly those found in e-bikes and e-scooters. Over half say their fire risk fears have grown since becoming owners.

A recent FOI request from QBE Insurance Group revealed a 93% increase in lithium-ion battery fires between 2022 and 2024, with e-bikes and e-scooters among the most common causes.

“Fire doors are a vital line of defence. When properly maintained and kept closed, they hold back flames and toxic smoke, giving you valuable extra minutes to escape while firefighters respond."

While focus has largely been on domestic fires, the research highlights that 19% of people charge e-bikes or e-scooters at work and 12% do so in public leisure facilities. Many employers have introduced facilities for e-bikes and e-scooters, such as indoor parking (31%), charging points (59%) and secure storage (27%), yet nearly half of respondents (46%) had spotted problems with workplace fire doors, raising the question as to whether employers are putting the same investment into ensuring fire doors are properly installed and maintained to minimise risk to life.

Issues ranged from fire doors being propped open (18%) and blocked (13%) to having faulty closers (10%) or faulty hinges (10%). 

Helen Hewitt, CEO of the British Woodworking Federation, said: “The findings highlight the essential role of fire doors in containing fires and protecting lives, while also exposing concerning gaps in awareness, maintenance and reporting. Fire doors are a critical line of defence, slowing the spread of fire and smoke to give people extra time to escape – time that is even more critical when dealing with the intense heat and speed of fires caused by lithium-ion batteries.”

She added: “We all have a role to play in spotting and reporting problems with fire doors and taking immediate action to protect lives and property. Fire Door Safety Week is an essential reminder that correctly installed, well-maintained fire doors save lives – but only if we all take responsibility for ensuring they can do their job.”

London Fire Brigade Deputy Assistant Commissioner Richard Field said: “Workplaces need to treat lithium battery fires with the same seriousness as they would in the home. Fires involving e-bikes and e-scooters can erupt suddenly and spread with alarming speed, producing intense heat and toxic smoke in seconds.

“E-bikes and e-scooters are one of London’s fastest-growing fire risks. Since the beginning of 2023, there has been a fire, on average, every other day involving an e-bike or e-scooter.

“We’re urging people never to store or charge e-bikes or e-scooters in hallways, stairwells or escape routes. If possible, keep them outdoors in a garage or shed. If you must keep one indoors, always place it in a room away from your main exit, so that if a fire does break out, you can close the door and get everyone to safety.

“Fire doors are a vital line of defence. When properly maintained and kept closed, they hold back flames and toxic smoke, giving you valuable extra minutes to escape while firefighters respond. Employers have a responsibility to make sure fire doors are well-maintained, kept closed, and that any charging points are safely managed.”