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Environmental Health and Safety

EHS Directive on Motorized and Non-Motorized Personal Transportation Devices

Purpose

The purpose of this directive is to address the on-campus use, storage and charging of Personal Transportation Devices (PTDs), particularly focusing on the inherent dangers associated with lithium-ion batteries. The goal is to ensure the safety and well-being of all members of the Illinois State University community by minimizing/eliminating the risks of fire, explosion, and other hazards associated with these devices.

Applicability

This directive applies to all students, faculty, staff, and visitors who own, use, possess, or store PTDs on university property. PTDs include, but are not limited to, electric scooters, electric bikes, electric unicycles and one-wheels, electric skateboards, hoverboards, gas-powered motor bicycles, and other PTDs powered by lithium-ion batteries.

This directive does not prohibit on-campus use of mobility assistance devices and other approved accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Requests for exceptions must be submitted to Student Access and Accommodations or the Office of Equal Opportunity and Access. Approvals must be received prior to bringing the device onto campus.

Definitions

  • ADA Assisted Transportation Device: Any assistive technology, motorized or non-motorized, that aids the movement of people with physical impairments. Includes wheelchairs, self-propelled wheelchairs, and ADA scooter devices (typically powered by a sealed lead acid battery).
  • Non-motorized Personal Transportation Devices: A personal transportation device propelled solely by human power. Includes but is not limited to the following devices: bicycles of all types, inline skates, kick scooters, and skateboards.
  • Motorized Personal Transportation Devices: Personal transportation devices driven by a motor and powered by batteries (particularly lithium-ion batteries) and gas motors. Motorized PTDs include, but not limited to, hoverboards, motorized bicycles (gas/electric), e-scooters, motorized skateboards, segways and other self-balancing wheeled devices.
  • Lithium-Ion Batteries: Rechargeable batteries commonly used in e-mobility devices, known for their high energy density but also associated with potential fire and explosion risks if damaged, improperly charged, or exposed to extreme conditions.

Directive

To protect the university community and its property, the following regulations regarding PTDs are in effect:

  • ADA Assisted Transportation Devices are specifically exempt from this directive's regulations except they shall be operated in a safe and courteous manner. These devices must meet applicable safety standards including but not limited to UL (Underwriters Laboratories) listings.
  • PTDs may only operate in outdoor areas not marked as Dismount Zones. PTD operators must comply with campus “Dismount Zones” identified in the university policy 5.1.8 Bikes, Skateboard, Scooters, and other recreation and Transportation Devices.
  • Riders must operate PTDs in a controlled manner, at a safe speed, and must dismount when and where necessary for safety given the circumstances of their surroundings such as density of pedestrian traffic, terrain, and operating conditions (e.g., weather, construction, events, etc.).
  • An operator may use an authorized PTD on campus provided that all rules controlling such operation are observed. Traffic control devices, including designated areas, zones, signage, and signals, are part of the rules controlling operation of PTDs and shall be observed.
  • PTD operators must always yield to pedestrians as they have the right of way on campus.
  • Storage, use, charging, or possession of motorized PTDs (and/or corresponding battery packs) are specifically prohibited in campus buildings or structures. Any motorized PTD or corresponding battery pack found in a building or structure is subject to removal.
  • Storing any non-motorized PTD in hallways, stairwells, public areas, or any location that obstructs emergency exits or evacuation routes is prohibited. Any PTD found in violation is subject to removal.
  • PTDs shall be parked in areas specifically provided for said PTD parking. Such parking areas may include, but are not limited to, bike racks and exterior bicycle parking areas. Securing PTDs to buildings, railings, trees, benches, etc. is prohibited and will subject them to removal.

Compliance and Enforcement

Violations by University students and employees will be grounds for discipline under applicable University policy. Violations by non-affiliated individuals will be referred to the Illinois State University Police. Anyone who observes a violation of this policy can submit a “Report a Safety Concern” or contact Environmental Health and Safety at (309) 438-8325.

Revisions

This directive is subject to revision in response to changes in technology, safety standards, or university policies and procedures.

Resources

Center for Campus Fire Safety

Fire Safety Research Institute: Article One   Article Two

National FIre Protection Association Lithium-Ion Battery Safety Tip Sheet

 


Effective date: 01-01-2025