Transport for London has published a new ‘Safety Standard’ to support cargo bike operations across the UK capital.
Included in the standard are 19 key risks identified for cargo bikes, operators and riders, and 21 mandatory safety requirements as well as additional recommendations for operators.
With the potential of cargo bikes replacing 17% of van kilometres in London by 2030 and cutting 30,000 tonnes of carbon emissions each year, the purpose of the standard is to make cargo bikes a “prime option” for last-mile logistics in London.
“Cargo bikes are a great way to transport freight or goods around cities, and can be instrumental in reducing emissions in London and achieving the Mayor’s net zero carbon goals,” London’s Walking and Cycling Commissioner Will Norman told Zag Daily.
“It’s great that TfL is launching a new Safety Standard for cargo bikes as part of the Mayor’s Cargo Bike Action Plan. Improving the safety of cargo bikes will encourage greater uptake in London, cutting emissions and congestion and helping us to build a better, greener London for all.”
Key risks identified in the standard include non compliant bikes presenting increased danger to the rider and other road users, collisions and casualties which are more likely to occur from poor training, and the risk to pedestrians who are unaware of approaching cargo bikes.
Amongst its mandatory standards are compliance with EAPC regulations, the requirement for operators to ensure that riders are trained to a minimum of Bikeability level 3, and having an audible warning device.
The standard also makes recommendations such as for operators to complete a dynamic risk assessment for routes and construction sites that pose a risk to riders and the public, and encouraging riders to wear a helmet.
Dan Parsons, Co-Founder of UK e-bike specialists Fully Charged, said TfL’s Cargo Bike Safety Standard is “the first of its kind” which sets the bar for safety and related recommendations for the cargo bike industry.
“As e-bikes are very often misrepresented in the media with sensationalist messaging about fires and antisocial behaviour confusing ‘bad’ converted electric bicycles and e-motorcycles with ‘safe’ legitimate e-bikes, the public’s perception can be negatively skewed,” Dan told Zag Daily.
“The Cargo Bike Safety Standard helps address public concerns and demonstrate the steps that the fledgling industry is taking towards being a positive force for good.”
Kevin Savage, Chief Operating Officer of sustainable last-mile logistics company Delivery Mates, also supports TfL’s initiative to establish comprehensive safety standards for cargo bike operations. However, he advocates for a collaborative approach to their creation with industry stakeholders.
“It’s essential to balance safety measures with the economic realities faced by green last-mile operators,” Kevin said. “The cargo bike sector is still emerging, and imposing regulations that significantly increase operational costs could hinder progress toward TfL’s target of replacing up to 4% of van kilometers in central London with cargo bikes by 2030.
“We have observed instances where operators have struggled or ceased operations during expansion phases. To prevent further setbacks, it’s crucial that new regulations are implemented thoughtfully, ensuring they enhance safety without placing undue financial burdens on operators.
“While we commend TfL’s commitment to safety through the establishment of cargo bike standards, we urge consideration of the economic impact on operators. A collaborative approach that involves industry stakeholders in the development of these standards will help ensure that safety and sustainability goals are met without compromising the viability of green last-mile delivery services in London.”
Last summer, more than 80 cargo bikes took part in London’s annual Cargo Bike Cruise event to celebrate a 63% increase in the city’s cargo bike use between 2022 and 2023.
