The reports of malfunctioning hoverboards exploding have become so frequent that it's no longer a surprise to hear of one burning a user's home or belongings.
Now UL (Underwriters Laboratories), the independent testing firm that many U.S. electronics manufacturers use as a mark of safety certification, has opened a program specifically designed to test hoverboards.
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The organization will use its "UL 2272" certification, which covers the device's rechargeable battery as well as a charger system in conjunction with what UL terms as "self balancing scooters."
"With UL 2272, our expert science, research, and engineering teams have now developed the appropriate requirements and methodology to confidently evaluate and test the entire self-balancing scooter for electrical and fire-hazard safety as a system," said Jeff Smidt, vice president and general manager for UL’s Energy and Power Technologies division. "As recent news has shown us, there is a strong need for this type of service, and today we are pleased to offer our testing and certification services to manufacturers and distributors."
But even before the UL's official testing phase began, last week, the organization posted a video (below) outlining some of the safety tips hoverboard riders should follow in order to avoid issues with the device.
Hoverboard manufacturers interested in submitting their devices to UL's testing program can now visit the site and fill out the organization's contact form to begin the process.
Last month the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) singled out Swagway, one of the most popular hoverboard brands, as having used counterfeit UL markings on its products.
Now, with the official launch of UL's testing program, hoverboard manufacturers will have little excuse for not putting their devices through a rigorous and U.S.-recognized safety testing program.
So while the CPSC's investigation is still ongoing, the UL's new involvement could pave the way for safer hoverboards, or at least a more reliable path toward purchasing brands that put safety first.