In most cases, yes. The Fire Safety Order requires you to review your fire risk assessment when there is reason to think it is no longer valid or there has been a significant change. Regularly charging lithium-ion e-bike and e-scooter batteries indoors introduces a new and serious fire hazard that your assessment needs to address.
Why it matters
Lithium-ion batteries can fail through damage, poor quality chargers or overcharging. When they fail they can go into thermal runaway, producing intense fire and toxic smoke very quickly, often with little warning. Fires involving e-bikes and e-scooters are now a well-recognised risk in workplaces and residential buildings.
What your review should cover
- Where charging happens. Charging should never take place in escape routes, protected stairways or corridors, or next to exits.
- A designated charging area. Ideally away from combustible materials, covered by fire detection, and not left unattended for long periods or overnight.
- Equipment. Use the manufacturer's charger. Do not charge batteries that are damaged, swollen or have been modified.
- A clear policy. Staff need to know where they can and cannot charge, and who to tell if a battery is damaged.
- Your insurer. Some insurers have specific expectations for lithium-ion charging, so check your policy conditions.
Record the change
Since October 2023, every responsible person must keep a written record of their full fire risk assessment. Record the review, what you decided and any measures you have put in place.
This answer is general guidance on the law in England and is not a substitute for advice on your specific premises.