MIT Introduces New Guidelines for Personal Wheels (PWs)
MIT has introduced new guidelines for the use of "Personal Wheels" (PWs), including scooters, skateboards, and bicycles, in response to a surge in their popularity on campus. The measures aim to enhance safety for both PW riders and pedestrians. Key points include: no riding indoors, with PWs prohibited from being used inside any Institute building; parking restrictions, which mandate that PWs must not be parked in classrooms or common areas and should be stored only in residential rooms or personal offices; and charging safety, requiring that motorized PWs can only be charged while monitored and must be registered, UL certified (a safety certification for electrical devices), and must use manufacturer-supplied charging equipment.
These guidelines, effective immediately, are part of a broader initiative to create a culture of safety and responsibility among PW users. This summer, MIT is also piloting an updated registration process for motorized PWs, which incorporates safety certification details. The registration not only ensures compliance but also aids the MIT Police in recovering stolen PWs. For more information, contact Tom Giannino, Manager of Parking, Transportation, and Customer Service, at commuting@mit.edu with any questions.