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EHS

Micromobility Vehicles

What is Micromobility?

Micromobility vehicles are small, lightweight personal transportation devices that typically do not exceed 30 mph.

Examples:

  • Non-motorized vehicles:
    • Bicycles
  • Electric-powered devices:
    • E-Bikes
    • E-Scooters
    • Electric Skateboards
    • Electric Unicycles
    • Other similar personal micromobility devices (e.g., Orbit Wheels, Hoverboards)

What are they?

Per the U.S. Department of Transportation, micromobility devices are generally:
  • Small, low-speed vehicles powered by human effort or electricity.
  • Bicycles, scooters, and similar wheeled devices are the most common.

Criteria for Powered Micromobility:

  • Maximum speed: Under 30 MPH
  • Maximum weight: Under 500 pounds
  • Utilizes self-propulsion

*Per the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE)

InfoExclusions:

Non-motorized skateboards

Electric Personal Assistance Mobility Devices (EPAMDs)

UL Certification Requirements

To enhance safety across campus, all micromobility devices must meet the following requirements:

  1. Mandatory Certification

    • All micromobility vehicles, lithium-ion batteries, and chargers must be certified to meet applicable UL standards.
    • Devices are subject to inspection by UA Transportation and Parking Services.

  2. Recognized UL Standards

    Applicable safety standards include:

    • UL 2849 – Electric bicycles (e-bikes)
    • UL 2272 – Electric scooters, skateboards, and hoverboards
    • UL 2271 – Lithium-ion batteries used in micromobility devices

  3. Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL) Certification:

    Devices must display a valid certification mark from an approved NRTL, such as:

    • UL
    • ETL
    • TÜV
    • SGS

  4. Compliance Requirements:

    • Non-certified devices or batteries:
      • Will NOT be registered
      • Are prohibited from operation on University property
    • Each device must be registered individually, including multiple devices owned by one user.
    • Any newly acquired vehicle, battery, or charger must also meet UL certification requirements.
micromobility registration

InfoUse of Campus Infrastructure:

Only registered, compliant micromobility devices may:

  • Use designated parking areas
  • Use Park-and-Charge Stations

Micromobility Hazards

Lithium-ion batteries are efficient but present significant fire and explosion hazards when damaged or improperly used.

Thermal Runaway Risk

A failure condition known as thermal runaway can occur, causing:

  • Rapid temperature increases exceeding 300°C (572°F)
  • Potential fire, explosion, or release of toxic gases

Required Safety Practices

To reduce risk, the following practices are required:

Approved Equipment

  • Only purchase and use UL-listed devices and batteries
  • Avoid uncertified products, especially from unreliable online sources

Proper Use

  • Follow all manufacturers instructions
  • Use only original, manufacturer-approved charger
  • Do not modify batteries, chargers, or devices

Charging and Storage

  • All micromobility devices, including their batteries, are subject to the following requirements per the UA Micromobility Policy (e.g., e-bikes)
    • Charged outdoors
    • Charged at approved charging stations (see attached locations and map)
  • Charging and storage is PROHIBITED inside all UA buildings

Environmental Conditions

Avoid charging in direct sunlight or extreme heat; this can increase the risk of overheating and battery failure.

Inspection and Maintenance

Regularly inspect devices for warning signs, including:

  • Swelling or bulging
  • Punctures or physical damage
  • Overheating
  • Discoloration
  • Unusual noises (e.g., popping or hissing)
  • Odors or smoke

If any of these signs are present:

  • Stop using the device immediately
  • Do not attempt to charge or repair it

Battery Disposal

  • Damaged or expired batteries must be recycled at an approved battery recycling facility
  • Do not dispose of lithium-ion batteries in regular trash

For assistance, contact UA Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) at 205-348-5905 or submit a request through the UA EHS website.

Contact Us

exclamationEmergency Response

If a battery-related incident occurs:

  • Evacuate immediately following established emergency procedures
  • Call emergency services (911 or UAPD at 205-348-5454) once in a safe location

For Assistance:

  • Contact UA Environmental Health and Safety (EHS): 205-348-5905
  • Or submit a request through the UA EHS website

Important Considerations:

  • Early warning signs (smoke, heat, hissing) require immediate action.
  • Lithium-ion battery fires can escalate rapidly.
  • There is a risk of reignition even after extinguishment.

References:

Micromobility Policy
Facility Fire Safety Policy: Storing and Utilizing Vehicles
HRC Community Living Standards: Storing and Utilizing Vehicles
Parking Services
Employee Handbook
Faculty Handbook
Student Code of Conduct
UL Standards

Micromobility and Lithium-ion Batteries