UK Vaping Laws: Guide on Legal Age and Restrictions

The recent seizure of 1,000 illegal vape devices in Notting Hill has raised concerns about the growing risk of teenagers unknowingly purchasing these products. With tank sizes up to 16ml, some of these devices are well beyond the UK’s legal limit of 2ml. This article aims to clarify the current UK vaping laws, where you can vape, and the health warnings associated with vapes.

What Is a Vape?

Vapes are devices that allow users to inhale vaporized liquid, typically containing nicotine. Unlike cigarettes, vapes do not contain tobacco, which is the harmful cancer-causing component of cigarettes.

What Are the Laws on Vaping in the UK?

The Tobacco and Related Products Regulations (TRPR)

In 2016, the UK introduced the Tobacco and Related Products Regulations (TRPR), which established the legal framework for vaping. These regulations include:

• Age restrictions: You must be 18 years or older to buy and use a vape.
• Vape cartridges: Cartridges must not hold more than 2ml of liquid or contain more than 20mg of nicotine per millilitre.

The UK Government is considering a ban on addictive fruit-flavoured vapes to deter young people from taking up the habit.

Where Can I Vape?

No Nationwide Legal Restrictions

Currently, there are no nationwide legal restrictions on vaping in public areas. However, local councils can impose their own customised restrictions, and individual property owners have the right to decide whether vaping is allowed on their premises.

Vaping in Public Spaces

Local authorities have the power to enforce rules on vaping in open public spaces. If vaping is prohibited in a specific area, there should be clear signage indicating this.

Can I Vape in Restaurants and Pubs?

The decision to allow vaping in restaurants, pubs, and other establishments is up to the individual owners. Many large chains, such as Starbucks, KFC, McDonald’s, and Caffè Nero, have implemented vaping bans.

What Are the Health Warnings on Vapes?

Cancer Research UK’s Warning

Cancer Research UK states that while e-cigarettes and vapes are safer than cigarettes, the long-term effects are still unknown. They advise against using these products if you have never smoked.

NHS’s Stance on Vaping

The NHS agrees that vaping is substantially less harmful than smoking, but it is not risk-free. They advise non-smokers not to take up vaping. The long-term effects of vaping are still uncertain, and it is highly unlikely that they are entirely danger-free.

Conclusion

Understanding the UK vaping laws and where you can vape is essential for both users and businesses. While vaping is generally considered a safer alternative to smoking, the long-term effects are still unknown. Therefore, caution is advised, especially for non-smokers.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the legal age for vaping in the UK?
   The legal age for purchasing and using vapes in the UK is 18 years old.
2. Are there any restrictions on vape cartridge sizes in the UK?
   Yes, vape cartridges must not hold more than 2ml of liquid or contain more than 20mg of nicotine per millilitre.
3. Can I vape in public places in the UK?
   Vaping is generally allowed in public places, but local authorities and private establishments may have their own restrictions.
4. Is vaping allowed in restaurants and pubs in the UK?
   This is up to the individual establishment owner. Many chains, such as Starbucks, KFC, McDonald’s, and Caffè Nero, have implemented bans on vaping.
5. Are vapes completely safe to use?
   While vaping is considered safer than smoking, long-term effects are not yet known, and it is not considered risk-free. Non-smokers are advised not to take up vaping.