Tube Train Drivers Threaten Strike Over E-Bike Fire Risk
A major train drivers’ union has slammed Transport for London (TfL) and warned of strike action if e-bikes aren’t banned from the Underground. The move comes after a dramatic fire involving an e-bike at Rayners Lane Tube station last month.
E-Bike Blaze Sparks Tube Chaos
At the end of last month, an e-bike spontaneously caught fire on the platform at Rayners Lane station, forcing a suspension of services on the Metropolitan and Piccadilly lines. Three fire engines rushed to tackle the blaze, thankfully with no injuries reported.
“An explosion onboard a train would almost certainly have led to serious casualties or deaths,” said Finn Brennan, ASLEF’s organiser on the Underground. “And if it led to a derailment, there was a real risk of a mass casualty event.”
Union Calls Out TfL’s Double Standards
ASLEF blasted TfL for what they called “staggering hypocrisy.” While e-scooters and e-unicycles have been banned from the Tube since 2021 over fire dangers, e-bikes are still allowed on trains and platforms.
Brennan said, “The absolute hypocrisy of banning scooters and other battery-operated vehicles, but not e-bikes, is staggering – and a real risk to passengers, platform staff, and Tube drivers.”
Safety Fears Grow as E-Bike Riders Flock to the Tube
The union revealed health and safety reps have long warned about lithium battery fire risks, but TfL has ignored their pleas. Passenger groups boarding trains with multiple e-bikes only add to the danger.
“A fire on one could easily cause others to explode,” Brennan warned.
ASLEF plans to issue safety advice to members, reminding them they can refuse to work in hazardous conditions. The union will soon ballot drivers on industrial action if TfL does not act.
“There can be no justification for continuing to put staff and passengers at risk by allowing potentially explosive devices on London Underground trains,” ASLEF stated.
TfL Promises Review but No Immediate Ban
TfL responded by stressing that safety remains their top priority. A spokesperson said, “We regularly review risk assessments and the controls we have in place to ensure customers can travel safely. We will continue to talk to the London Fire Brigade and keep our policies under review.”
But for ASLEF and worried Tube staff, the message is clear: no action equals a strike.
