Electric scooters and bicycles inside hospitals: a real risk for safety and hygiene

With the growing popularity of soft mobility options such as electric scooters and bikes, more and more users are choosing them to travel to the hospital. While these modes of transport are practical and environmentally friendly, their presence inside healthcare facilities poses serious safety and hygiene concerns. These vehicles must therefore remain outside the hospital premises.

An Underestimated Fire Hazard
The lithium batteries used in electric scooters and bikes are known to carry a risk of overheating or explosion, particularly in the event of impact, improper handling, or overcharging. In a hospital environment, this risk is especially critical because:

There is a high density of vulnerable individuals: bedridden patients, healthcare staff, visitors...

Emergency evacuations must be quick and unobstructed.

Many areas contain sensitive medical equipment that could be damaged by fire or explosion.

A Hygiene Issue
Hospitals are required to maintain extremely strict hygiene standards. Bringing a vehicle that has been used outdoors—often in dirty streets, parking lots, or even construction sites—into clinical or administrative areas is problematic:

Spread of bacteria and germs: wheels and frames may carry contaminants.

Dirt in hallways or waiting areas, increasing cleaning needs and potentially compromising the cleanliness of the spaces.

Incompatibility with sterile areas, where any external vector is strictly forbidden.

An Obstruction to Movement and Safety
Beyond fire and hygiene risks, these devices can obstruct movement in narrow corridors, block emergency exits, or cause accidental falls—particularly for patients with reduced mobility.

Hospitals are sensitive environments where every detail matters in ensuring safety, health, and comfort for all. Allowing electric scooters or bikes inside compromises these goals and is therefore strictly prohibited. Collective vigilance is essential to enforce these rules and protect both patients and caregivers.