A power bank inside a passenger's bag emitted smoke aboard a Line 6 train at Samgakji Station on Tuesday, causing disruption even though no injuries were reported.
Seoul Metro said battery-related fire and smoke incidents on the subway have been occurring with increasing frequency, and urged the public to exercise extra caution.
Over the past two years, nine incidents involving smoke or flames from power banks or lithium batteries have been recorded on sections of the network under Seoul Metro's jurisdiction.
Since April this year, incidents have occurred at Yeonsinnae, Express Bus Terminal, Sillim, Seoul Station and Sindang stations, with Tuesday's Samgakji case adding to the list.
No serious injuries have been reported so far, but the incidents have led to passenger evacuations and train delays. Even a single battery fire on a subway used by large numbers of people can affect the safety of other passengers and disrupt train operations.
Power bank fires do not simply remain contained to the belongings of the passenger involved. In crowded train cars, they can cause smoke to spread and trigger emergency evacuations, leading to secondary accidents such as falls during the evacuation process.
Passengers are responsible for safely managing their own belongings, including power banks. Under Seoul Metro's passenger transport terms and conditions, liability for damage caused by a passenger's negligence in handling carry-on items rests with that passenger. Because individual carelessness can affect the safety of other riders, Seoul Metro said passengers should check their battery's condition before boarding.
If a passenger's negligent handling of items such as a power bank, bicycle or suitcase causes harm to other passengers or to Seoul Metro, the passenger carrying those items may be held liable for damages depending on the specific circumstances and degree of fault.
Seoul Metro asked passengers to check their power banks before using the subway and to immediately stop using or charging a battery — and not carry it on board — if any of the following conditions apply: the battery has swollen; the casing is dented or otherwise damaged; it has sustained an impact; it is generating abnormal heat; or it is emitting a burning smell or smoke.
Even a power bank in normal condition should be kept away from high temperatures and physical shocks while on the train. Passengers should also avoid cramming it tightly into a bag or storing it alongside other objects.
If a power bank suddenly becomes hot or begins emitting smoke or sparks while on the subway, passengers should immediately notify station staff or a train crew member to allow for a swift response.
Following a revision to its passenger transport terms and conditions, Seoul Metro has banned the carrying of high-capacity lithium batteries exceeding 160 watt-hours on the subway since July 1, as a preemptive measure against lithium battery fire risks.
"Careless handling of a power bank can affect not only your own safety but that of other passengers," said Ma Hae-geun, head of Seoul Metro's operations division. "Please check your battery's condition one more time before boarding, and join us in keeping everyone safe by not bringing on any product that shows signs of a problem."
seouldream01@heraldcorp.com
