Panellists at a recent Science Media Centre briefing have defended indoor vaping and explained that vapers shouldn’t have to go outside with smokers.It is now common knowledge that passive smoking is a threat to people within a close vicinity. This was a contributing factor towards the smoking ban coming into force in 2007. However, there is no such threat when it comes to vaping as experts have dismissed the threat of passive vaping on numerous occasions.
Vapers shouldn’t have to vape outside with smokers
The panellists at the Science Media Centre briefing included Professor John Britton, University of Nottingham and Ann McNeill, King’s College London. One of the key topics discussed was that in various scenarios, vapers must go outside to vape with smokers. The expert panellists argued that this should not be the case.Vapers have made a proactive choice to make the switch away from traditional cigarettes. By having to go outside and breathe in the cigarette smoke, this takes away some of the positivity of vaping.Professor Britton explained that going outside with smokers may entice vapers into having a cigarette. He suggested that ‘by sending vapers out to vape with the smokers you are putting them in direct contact with the product they are trying to quit.’He described vaping indoors as a “courtesy issue”, as he informed us that unlike smoking, ‘there is no evidence of harm to other people’. Simply put, John Britton was suggesting that if establishments are to ban vaping indoors, the reasoning should not be down to health concerns.
What are the current indoor vaping laws?
In the UK, it is currently at the discretion of the proprietor, whether or not to allow vaping inside their premises. As vaping is increasingly endorsed by the UK experts, more and more organisations are providing positive solutions for vapers.One particular topic that often arises is the policy on vaping workplaces. In August, the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (ACAS) updated its guidance on vaping at work. After the IBVTA wrote to them, ACAS suggested that vaping shelters should be considered by employers.As the NHS has begun its journey of becoming smoke-free, we have also seen hospitals add vaping shelters and vaping areas.Wth experts such as Professor John Britton speaking out, we hope to see positive attitudes towards vaping continue to grow. While indoor vaping may not be suitable in all situations, it is a driver in persuading to smokers make the switch to vaping.