Due to its relationship with tobacco cigarettes, e-cigarettes have made quite a stir all over the world. Laws regulating the use of e-cigarettes vary from one country to the other.
For example, Japan has a law that bans the use of e-cigarettes.
In the United Kingdom, e-cigarettes are legal but also classified under regulated products. The first time they showed up in the British market was back in 2009. It has been 10 years since, and new rules have come up as well as changes made to pre-existing rules, all with the intention of not only governing how these products are sold but also to ensure they are up to standard.
Are there areas where vaping is banned in the United Kingdom
Currently, vaping in the United Kingdom is legal. No states have banned its use. Although, a bill to ban the use of e-cigarettes in public places where young children may be present was set for discussion in Wales some time ago. However, the bill did not go through as a majority of the members of parliament voted against it.
Also, in the same area, a public beach declared its space smoke-free. Officials still insist that no persons are allowed to smoke there though no form of legal punishment if you decide to smoke. You will only be asked to stop.
Even though the government has not put forth any ban, the liberty to allow any vaping or smoking solely lies on the owner of the property. It is the laws that govern what people can or can’t do in these smoke-free places that will be used to prosecute any law-breaker Most Airlines and London Underground have banned vaping. Other private entities have followed suit.
If you are in a public space, it is recommended to check in with the staff members before vaping.
What about product restrictions?
The British government finds no harm in people vaping. To them, it is a harmless way of getting a dose of nicotine.
It is to this fact that the government came up with rules and regulations that govern the production and promotion of e-cigarettes. This is solely to ensure the safety of all people who vape and the general public at large.
The strictest regulations apply to the percentage of nicotine present in each cartridge, e-liquids, and atomizers. Previously, an e-liquid contained 24mg of nicotine per milliliter. Following extensive research and in-depth consultation from medical practitioners, this amount was brought down further to 20mg of nicotine per milliliter. Besides, laws stipulating that the maximum capacity of one e-liquid container be 10ml was passed. Cartridges, on the other hand, are to have a maximum capacity of 2ml.
Additionally, any company that manufactures e-cigarettes should forward all information about their products to the government for approval. This is done before the product is released to the market for consumer use.
Most legit companies that manufacture these products have no issues adhering to these strict regulations. They understand that the government has the best interest of its citizens at heart and want quality products for all people who vape.
To be more careful, retailers are urged to check of the product notification is listed under the UK’s list of submitted products.
