Hoverboard no longer a toy, sales to under-16s banned

Riyadh : The Ministry of Commerce and Industry has barred retailers from labeling the popular hoverboard a children’s toy and selling it to those under 16 because of the risk of injury.

The ministry has also called for all batteries of the devices to undergo tests and published a video about how to use them safely.

Hoverboards could only be sold as sport devices, said the ministry. Importers must reveal the names of those retailers selling the devices which must have a two-year warranty  to customers. Inspections are planned for next month, the ministry said.

The ministry also called for tests on the batteries because they are made from lithium and can cause fires. They should not be charged overnight because of the danger of overheating.

It further stated that users must wear helmets and other protective gear when using them. All consumers have been urged to only buy from registered outlets and to keep their receipts.

The ministry emphasized the fact that many international consumer protection bodies and control authorities are currently seeking to avoid the risks of this new technology by developing technical specifications for such items. 

All parties agree on the importance of dealing with this technology with caution, it said in a statement.