E-Bike and E-Scooter Storage and Charging at Mount Sinai
To protect patients and employees, the Mount Sinai Health System strictly prohibits the storage and charging of e-bikes and e-scooters and their lithium-ion batteries within Mount Sinai leased and owned properties. This includes removable battery packs. The policy applies to everyone, including patients, visitors, employees, doctors, faculty, students, volunteers, and contractors. It does not, however, apply to people with a documented disability who are operating an assistive mobility device in accordance with the American Disabilities Act.
E-bikes and e-scooters are an increasingly popular eco-friendly transportation alternative. However, the lithium-ion batteries that power these bikes have become a leading cause of fires in New York City, according to the Fire Department of New York. These batteries can overheat, cause fires, and even explode. They carry a high risk of injuries, fatalities, and operational impacts to any hospital or research environment. Storing and charging devices with these batteries can pose a significant risk. In 2023, lithium-ion batteries caused 268 fires in New York City, killing 18 people and injuring 150. In addition, fires caused by lithium-ion batteries are particularly difficult to extinguish.
Types of Devices
The policy applies to e-devices (including removable battery packs) or battery-powered transportation devices that use lithium-ion batteries. This includes but is not limited to:
- Electric bicycles
- E-bikes
- Electric scooters
- Hover boards
- Electric unicycles
- Electric motorcycles
The policy excludes motorized mobility devices in accordance with the American Disabilities Act of 1990 for all occupants at all times.
An alternative to riding your own e-bike or e-scooter is using New York’s Citi Bike.
Locations Prohibited
This refers to all Mount Sinai owned and leased areas. These include but are not limited to:
- Patient care areas
- Research areas
- Educational areas
- Administrative areas
- Clinical laboratories
- Hazardous areas
- Off-campus locations such as offices, clinics, garages, and residential buildings
Where to Safely Secure E-Devices and Rent Bikes
If you visit or work at a Mount Sinai facility, you can easily find a designated place to secure your e-bike or e-scooter. There are approximately 500 New York City Department of Transportation bike racks located near Health System and hospital locations.
In addition, there are approximately 1,800 Citi Bike rentals available for staff and visitors near Mount Sinai Health System locations.
View locations to secure your e-bikes and also obtain Citi rental bikes.