Safety issues prompt ban of hoverboards in campus buildings

Upon recommendation from the Central Health and Safety Committee, Western Washington University has temporarily prohibited the use, possession or storage of hoverboards (electronic, self-balancing boards) and similar devices in buildings owned and operated by Western, including residence halls. Unreasonable risk of fire prompted the Consumer Product Safety Commission to conduct an investigation of these devices and issued a statement to manufacturers, importers, and retailers regarding compliance with safety standards.

The Central Health and Safety Committee and applicable campus stakeholders will review this temporary policy on July 1 and make further appropriate policy recommendations based on the CPSC investigation. For questions regarding this policy, please contact Environmental Health and Safety at 360-650-3064.

Western will work with students who may already have hover boards stored on campus to arrange for removal. Please contact Public Safety at 360-650-3555 or Environmental Health & Safety at 360-650-3064.

The Environmental Health and Safety office would also like to remind hoverboard users of the fall hazards particularly when first learning how to use the device. Please consider taking proper precautions in wearing a helmet and pads.