Fire risk is changing: what UK workplaces must do differently in 2026
Fire safety is no longer just about alarms and extinguishers.
In 2026, the nature of fire risk itself is changing – and fast.
From e-bikes and e-scooters to everyday devices, lithium-ion batteries are now one of the fastest-growing causes of fires across the UK.
For businesses and facilities management teams, this creates a new kind of risk that must be actively managed.
What has changed?
Recent reports show a sharp rise in fires linked to lithium-ion batteries, including e-bikes and e-scooters.
In 2025 alone:
- E-bike fires rose significantly year-on-year
- Fire services reported incidents almost daily in some areas
- Poorly manufactured batteries and chargers were a major cause
Experts warn these fires are more dangerous than traditional ones, with intense heat, rapid spread and difficulty in suppression.
At the same time, fire safety enforcement is increasing, with greater focus on real-world risks rather than outdated assumptions.
Why this matters for FM and cleaning
This is not a theoretical issue.
Battery-powered devices are now common in workplaces:
- E-bikes used for commuting
- Cleaning equipment
- Maintenance tools
- Personal electronics
This creates new fire risks in:
- Storage areas
- Charging points
- Waste handling
- Plant rooms
Traditional fire strategies may not fully address these risks.
At the same time, regulators are placing more emphasis on:
- Up-to-date fire risk assessments
- Documented safety processes
- Staff awareness and training
- Evidence of compliance
Fire safety is now something that must be actively managed and demonstrated.
What this means for different organisations
Small businesses
Focus on awareness and simple controls.
You should:
- Manage charging areas
- Avoid unsafe or low-quality devices
- Review basic fire risk assessments
Medium and large organisations
The challenge is control across sites.
You need:
- Consistent policies on device use
- Designated charging areas
- Updated fire risk assessments
- Clear procedures
Multinationals
Battery risks must be integrated into global safety frameworks.
Consistency and reporting are key.
Public sector buyers
Public buildings face higher scrutiny.
You must demonstrate:
- Safe environments
- Updated fire strategies
- Compliant FM services
Contractors
Contractors play a direct role.
You must:
- Use safe equipment
- Follow site rules
- Support compliance and reporting
What to check now
Start with five practical checks:
- Devices – what battery-powered equipment is on site?
- Charging – are areas controlled and safe?
- Risk assessments – are they up to date?
- Training – do staff understand the risks?
- Contractors – are they following the same standards?
Where TPMG FM fits in
This is where structured FM delivery is essential.
At TPMG FM, safety is built into everyday operations through:
- Controlled processes
- Clear site standards
- Trained teams
- Visible reporting
As risks evolve, organisations need services that adapt and remain compliant.
