Can You Use E-Cigarettes in Public Places?

According to official data, there are currently over 2.8 million e-cigarette users or vapers in the UK. However, many people still do not know when and where they should use their vapes - over half of the surveyed e-cigarette brands reported feeling "confused." The editor's view is that vaping in public places that are not enclosed is acceptable, provided that some vape etiquette is followed: try not to use it in front of others, and stand in areas with airflow. In public, I advocate vaping to "satisfy cravings" rather than "indulging."

Etiquette expert Debrett has released its own acceptable vaping rules. Although vaping has become mainstream, Debrett states that "the lack of official guidelines does not make it universally accepted."

Social Minefields

According to the UK Public Health Department, the main reason people hesitate to quit or reduce smoking is that non-smokers do not always accept those around them vaping. The e-cigarette brand Vype conducted its own survey of 2000 people to determine the biggest rudeness of vapers - and found that vaping in tight spaces (like elevators) is the number one complaint. Next is vaping in a restaurant, during an interview, or blowing vapor in someone’s face, or vaping in someone’s car without their permission. Other unacceptable times for vaping include in someone’s home without their permission, while waiting in line, and on public transport...

Additionally, Debrett has released its own guidelines stating that the rules regarding vaping are "largely discretionary" - making vapers a "social minefield" that only good etiquette can navigate.

Debrett's Etiquette Rules

First, ask - most public places like bars or theaters have clear policies, but if unclear, please ask the staff.

Do not vape in restaurants. Most restaurants have clear no-smoking policies while serving food.

Do not vape while waiting in line - considering others is key, no matter how boring the wait may be.

Do not assume you can vape in a friend’s house or car - ask first. It’s polite to take it outside.

Do not blow vapor in someone’s face - while you may enjoy the aroma, not all non-vapers will appreciate it.

Do not vape on buses, trains, or planes - most prohibit vaping, and if you want to vape, use designated smoking areas.

Do not assume all hotels allow vaping - it’s best to check when booking.

Do not try to discreetly "stealth vape" in non-vaping areas - it’s better to wait until you can do so in public.

Health charity Ash's CEO Deborah Arnott states that organizations need to clarify the differences between vaping and smoking. She believes that vaping is a "matter of courtesy on both sides."

She said: "Vapers should use common sense in crowded or tight public spaces and not vape, but they should not feel uncomfortable or apologetic about vaping."
"They [non-vapers] should recognize that e-cigarettes are primarily used by those trying to quit smoking or prevent relapse, and that e-cigarette vapor does not release the toxic load found in tobacco smoke."

As for the law, the government views smoking and vaping quite differently - thus, smoke-free legislation does not apply to vaping.

While it is illegal for those under 18 to purchase e-cigarettes, there are no penalties for using them in workplaces, public places, public transport, restaurants, or bars. Instead, it is up to the company or owner to decide.

While the debate over its safety levels continues, the consensus from the health department is that e-cigarettes are safer for users than smoking.