Or how not to p*** other people off when vaping
Etiquette is a cornerstone of our society and influences how we should act appropriately in public. Furthermore, as time goes on, things change and as a result, so do the behaviours we consider to be socially acceptable (or not).
For example jumping the queue, coughing without covering your mouth, and using your mobile at the dinner table are all examples of behaviours that are generally considered bad manners. Similarly, puffing out huge vapour clouds at inappropriate times and in inappropriate places won’t win you any brownie points either.
It’s helpful to take a look at the current rules – written and unwritten – and regulations around vaping to determine how we can all become better ambassadors for vaping.
What’s the law regarding vaping?
While vaping is not prohibited in England by the 2007 smoking ban, unfortunately vaping and e-cigarettes have inherited some of the negative stereotypes of smoking. Unlike cigarettes though, it’s not automatically illegal to vape in enclosed public spaces such as bars, restaurants and nightclubs. That means it’s the choice of the venue owner whether or not to allow people to vape. Other legalities around vaping tend towards the supply, packaging, labelling and sale of e-cigarettes and accessories such as e-liquids. The UK e-cigarette industry is one of the most regulated in the world, which is why other countries often look to us when it comes to vaping best practice. We should be proud of that.
Vapers are part of a fast-growing and thriving community, but the vaping world collides with non-vapers every single day whether that’s in public or private spaces. We have to improve the image of vaping by adhering to certain standards and being mindful of those around us. Anybody who vapes is a representative of the vaping community, so be part of the solution and not part of the problem.
Our top 7 vaping etiquette rules
Vaping etiquette involves adhering to the regulations but is also mostly about being kind and considerate to others. Neither is it about “hiding” vaping, rather it’s more about making sure we do it in a way that doesn’t alienate others, vapers and non-vapers alike. Even Debrett’s, the 250-year-old authority on etiquette, has outlined a set of rules around the practice.
So here’s our top seven rules for vaping etiquette and vaping responsibly.
#1 Be aware of your surroundings
… and respect other people’s personal space. Clouds of vapour are a part of vaping life, but engulfing others – or their surroundings – in a vape cloud is not socially acceptable. Moreover, blowing vapour into other people’s faces is incredibly rude. Also, while you may enjoy your own vape flavour, bear in mind that some of the smells can be strong and others may not appreciate them as much as you do.
#2 Stick to the rules when using public transport
The majority of public transport companies have an official ban on e-cigarettes. These restrictions usually also cover areas like platforms and waiting areas. If travelling in a taxi or an Uber, it goes without saying that you should not use your vape as these spaces are enclosed. Even when travelling with a friend or family member in their car it’s polite to ask, and if the answer is no, respect their wishes.
#3 … And when travelling abroad
Vaping is banned at all UK airports and airlines, and there are rules around taking your vape kit in your hand luggage so check before you travel. Vaping laws differ widely around the globe, with some allowing it and some classing it as a crime to even be in possession of an e-cigarette. Do the research for your destination country and determine what the local regulations might be.
#4 Don’t “stealth vape”
Stealth vaping is a term used to describe multiple techniques vapers use to minimise the visibility of vapour and e-cigarettes, mainly when vaping indoors. While smaller devices make vaping “under the radar” possible, that doesn’t mean you should, especially if it’s not allowed, or there are children or pregnant women around. People will notice and all you’ll accomplish is giving vapers a bad name.
#5 Don’t attack smokers
If you’re an ex-smoker and now a 100% convert to vaping, then congratulations but there’s no need to rub it in. The saying goes that converts make the worst fanatics so if you have a friend or colleague who smokes be a proud vaper by all means, but wait until they ask you about it rather than smugly brag about how much money you save, your increased life expectancy, and your lowered risk of cardiovascular disease. Be prepared to educate and inform rather than lecture.
#6 Don’t encourage underage vaping
One of the biggest perception issues that the vaping industry faces on a daily basis is that under-18s are lured into a life of vaping which then acts as some kind of “gateway drug” to smoking. As much as the tabloids love a good headline, this couldn’t be further from the truth. So as we’d like to believe that you are responsible enough to not buy alcohol or tobacco for a minor, please extend the same principles to e-cigs.
#7 Don’t mix vaping and food
This might be a surprising one but as vaping can involve some strong flavours and odours, it’s a good idea not to vape while consuming food or drink. It’s also advisable not to vape while cooking, or indeed watching somebody else cook. For that same reason, it’s anti-social to vape immediately after a meal, either at home or in a restaurant, when everybody is still savouring the tastes and smells of the food.
At the end of the day vape etiquette is not rocket science. Be polite and respectful, and always vape responsibly. If you have any questions about vaping, or about any of our products, please get in touch.
