Lithium Battery Policy

E-MOBILITY DEVICE & LITHIUM-ION BATTERY PROHIBITION POLICY

Purpose:

This policy bans lithium-ion-powered batteries whether attached to or removed from e-bikes, scooters, skateboards, and any other e-mobility devices, and the charging of lithium-ion batteries from all CCNY campus facilities.

Scope:

To prevent fires, preserve the health and safety of the CCNY Community, protect CCNY properties, and because damaged lithium batteries have been known to explode, even when not in use. CCNY has decided to ban all lithium-ion powered e-bikes and e-mobility devices from all CCNY buildings. The storage and charging of the lithium-ion batteries for these mobility devices in CCNY buildings is also strictly prohibited. This policy applies to all CCNY students, faculty, staff, and visitors.

Enforcement Responsibility:

CCNY Department of Public Safety

Operational Implementation:

• Implementing this policy is essential due to the recent surge in deadly fires throughout New York City caused by these types of devices and their lithium-ion batteries.

• The CCNY community should be made aware that lithium-ion powered e-bikes, scooters, and other e-mobility devices, as well as the charging of lithium-ion batteries, may cause fires. These fires are chemical reactions that, once underway, cannot be extinguished like traditional fires and create toxic gases that can be deadly in enclosed spaces. Standard Dry Chemical ABC fire extinguishers are needed to extinguish the flames.

• No CCNY Community member or visitor may store or charge lithium-ion powered e-bikes, scooters, or other e-mobility devices or lithium-ion batteries in a CCNY building or facility.

• All E-mobility devices shall be stored and secured at the designated “outdoor” bike racks located throughout campus.

• Anyone violating this policy will be required to remove the device in question immediately and will be considered to have violated the CCNY Code of Conduct rules. If any such devices are discovered, they may be removed and discarded without notice.

• NOTE POLICY EXEMPTION: Persons whose mobility is restricted by either a disability, their health or age, or a temporary mobility issue (e.g. broken leg) may utilize American Disability Acts (ADA) approved power-driven mobility devices such as ADA battery-powered wheelchairs, and scooters designed for use in indoor facilities that use batteries including lithium-ion batteries on CCNY property and in buildings.

• This policy will be strictly enforced and shall remain in place until further notice.

Effective date: March 1, 2024