We want everyone who travels on the ScotRail network to be able to do so with confidence in a safe and friendly environment.
Like many other train operators, we have taken the decision to place a temporary ban all lithium-ion powered micro devices on all ScotRail trains and in all ScotRail stations with effect from Thursday, 1 June 2023.
This includes:
- e-scooters.
- e-unicycles.
- e-hoverboards.
- e-skateboards.
Our temporary ban will be reviewed in twelve months’ time once more data becomes available on the safe operation and transport of these devices, or once any formal legislation comes into effect.
This policy does not apply to personal mobility devices, powered wheelchairs and power assisted bicycles or e-bikes, which are regulated by UK legislation and British Standards.
Unregulated lithium-ion battery micro devices do not adhere to any technical safety standards, and because these devices are not governed by any UK legislation or standards, there is an increased risk in fire caused by the devices, which we’ve seen a spike in across the UK and across the rail network.
When a micro device battery is damaged by impact, overcharged, overheated, or designed with a manufacturing defect, the battery cells can quickly become unstable and rapidly release vast amounts of stored energy, which generates excessive heat and can quickly spread to other cells in the battery pack resulting in fire, or even explosion.
Paragraph 23.5 of the National Rail Conditions of Travel stipulates e-scooters as an item only permitted by the discretion of individual railway companies and as such gives ScotRail the right to refuse to carry them.
The Railway Byelaws contain several provisions which may be used to enforce this requirement if necessary.
There is no storage space for micro devices at stations. We would recommend you travel to and from the station using another mode of transport, or return to the station without your micro device where we would then work to get you on an alternative service.
Micro devices are not permitted on ScotRail trains and in ScotRail stations. We would ask you to return to the station without your micro device, or direct you to travel using an alternative form of transport.
You can travel with a non-electric scooter as long as they do not have any fixed or removable battery power source.
Petrol powered scooters and mopeds are not permitted due to health and safety around petrol on board trains.
No. There are no storage spaces for micro devices such as e-scooters, e-unicycles, e-skateboards and e-hoverboards at any ScotRail stations. We would recommend you travel to and from the station using another mode of transport.
You are allowed to travel with an e-bike as they must comply with a greater number of safety regulations.
No. Electric mobility aids can travel on the ScotRail network. There’s more information on our accessible transport policy here - Accessible travel | ScotRail.
This is a temporary ban. The policy will be reviewed in twelve months’ time once more data becomes available on the safe operation and transport of these devices, or when any formal legislation comes into effect.