By hannover-web.com Last year, a devastating three-alarm fire in Chinatown, ignited by a lithium battery, claimed the lives of four people. In response to a concerning rise in lithium battery-related fires across New York City, particularly in neighborhoods like Chinatown and Flushing, Mayor Eric Adams announced two new laws on October 9th aimed at curbing the sale of unapproved and unregulated lithium batteries and shutting down repeat offenders.
Accompanied by City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams, the mayor reported that the city has expanded regulations to protect residents from the dangers posed by uncertified lithium batteries. The recently enacted local laws, bills 49 and 50, initiated by Council Member Gale Brewer, now empower the city to close businesses that repeatedly violate lithium battery sales regulations.
Additionally, local law 39, which came into effect in September 2023, mandates that batteries for battery-powered micro-mobility vehicles, such as e-bikes, must meet laboratory safety standards before being sold or rented in the city. Although e-bikes have become a popular mode of transportation for many residents, Mayor Adams stressed the necessity of regulations to mitigate risks posed by non-compliant batteries that threaten lives and property.
Data shows there were 268 lithium battery fires last year, with fatalities rising from six in 2022 to 18 in 2023—a significant increase. Notably, a tragic fire on Madison Street in Chinatown in June claimed four lives, including that of a 71-year-old.
Statistics indicate that in 2023, 133 fires were caused by uncharged lithium batteries, while 91 originated during charging. As of September 30 this year, there have been 202 recorded lithium battery fires in the city, with 104 occurring within buildings.
The new bills will also grant the Fire Department of New York (FDNY) the authority to inspect certified batteries. Alongside the power to close non-compliant businesses, fines for violating certification requirements can now reach up to $2,000 per item. The laws also require businesses to display fire safety information prominently, with materials available in multiple languages.
Since the implementation of local law 39, the Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP) has conducted over 650 inspections, issued more than 275 violation notices, and has worked independently or in coordination with the Fire Department’s electronic safety task force to issue 40 cease-and-desist orders and over 25 violation notices to online retailers.
