Repairs, modifications and conversions to e-bikes and e-scooters are becoming more common as the popularity of these products increases.
Businesses should be aware that, in undertaking work of this nature, they can become deemed a 'manufacturer' in the eyes of the law. With that comes a wide range of legal responsibilities. In particular, the following legislation may apply:
- Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations 2008 (opens legislation.gov.uk website)
- Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations 2016 (opens legislation.gov.uk website)
- General Product Safety Regulations 2005 (opens legislation.gov.uk website)
- Batteries and Accumulators (Placing on the Market) Regulations 2008 (opens legislation.gov.uk website)
View related guidance on the GOV.UK website:
- Statutory guidance - Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations 2008: Great Britain (opens GOV.UK website)
- Statutory guidance - Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations 2016 (opens GOV.UK website)
- Statutory guidance - General Product Safety Regulations 2005: Great Britain (opens GOV.UK website)
- Guidance - regulations: batteries and accumulators (opens GOV.UK website)
Advice from the Office of Product Safety and Standards (OPSS)
To help understand the implications, the Office of Product Safety and Standards (OPSS), Chartered Trading Standards Institute and Bicycle Association are offering advice to businesses on the risks and responsibilities associated with carrying out repairs, modifications and conversions to e-bikes and e-scooters.
The OPSS has also issued a leaflet providing advice and useful links.
Remember that e-scooters cannot legally be used on roads or public footpaths unless they are part of the national government scheme. If you use an e-scooter illegally on the road, you can face a fine or points on your licence.
Advice for consumers on e-bike and e-scooter safety
If you have an e-bike or e-scooter, or are considering having your current bike or scooter converted or modified, please read our e-bike and e-scooter safety page.
House fires caused by e-bikes and e-scooters are rising as these products increase in popularity. In some of these cases, fires were predominantly caused by bikes that had been converted or battery chargers that weren't from the original manufacturer.
Our page provides advice on how to charge the products safely, conversions and consumer advice.
Business advice services
Our Trading Standards team offers an extensive advice service to support local businesses with their compliance. For more information, visit our business advice page.