The FMCSA has just issued a safety warning to CMV owners and operators concerning the risks associated with the use of battery-powered smoking devices.
According to the warning, drivers should be wary about using smoking devices such as e-cigarettes, e-cigars, e-pipes, personal vaporizers, e-hookahs and electronic nicotine delivery systems while riding in or driving a commercial vehicle.
FMCSA notes that the warning is not a ban on these devices, but instead it advises drivers to be aware of the risks and to use good judgment and discretion while using, charging and storing these electronic smoking devices. The warning also specifies that motor carriers and drivers must adhere to smoking prohibitions while near, or when loading and unloading hazardous material.
wherein the use of these devices resulted in explosions, serious personal injuries, and fires. The U.S. Fire Administration reported that there have been 25 such incidents between 2009-2014. Other news sources estimate the number of incidents could be as high as 150.
Several of incidents occurred when smoking devices were being charged; others happened while carrying the device.
Earlier this year, we reported on an incident where a driver was injured while using an e-cigarette in his truck. The driver veered off road in Austin, Indiana after his e-cigarette blew up in his face. The driver suffered burns to his face and blood loss due to cuts.
Wild Vape, a store specializing in e-cigarettes, explained what had happened.
“Nine times out of ten it is always the battery. The battery is giving the power and that’s the one that’s going to be volatile enough to cause that explosion. If it starts to get hot even a little bit more than you’re used to, stop using it right away.”
The FMSCA explains that numerous lives could be at risk if a smoking device were to explode inside a truck.