Standardization News

A proposed ASTM International standard aims to improve the safety of self-balancing scooters, more commonly known as hoverboards. 

The standard consumer safety specification for self-balancing scooters (WK57360) seeks to develop performance requirements for mechanical and physical properties of hoverboards in an effort to reduce injuries associated with falls and other physical hazards. Electrical system standards will be addressed through Underwriters Laboratories. 

During the period from August 1, 2015, through June 30, 2016, National Electronic Injury Surveillance System data provided by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates that there were approximately 650 reported emergency-room-treated injuries related to self-balancing scooters. 

The revised draft being issued for ballot and comment is a global document but is also intended to be designated as National Standard of Canada under the auspices of the Standards Council of Canada, of which ASTM International is accredited.  Through this process, members of the Canadian public are invited to provide feedback on the suitability of this standard to address Canadian safety issues.