Since the pandemic restrictions have eased, more people are getting back to their normal lives and with that comes some new social expectations as a direct result of Covid-19. Etiquette might typically be a word you associated with period dramas, but it is very important for when you vape. Despite having millions of users around the globe and a continued effort to educate the general public, vaping still doesn’t have the best reputation with those outside of the vape world, which is why it’s essential that we all do our bit to help how people view vaping. The best way to help how vaping is perceived is to be considerate when we vape outside our homes.
As a general rule, it is essential to remain aware of your surroundings and consider the impact vaping may be having on those around you. This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t vape when you need to, but there are plenty of situations where a little extra consideration will go a long way.
Our 2021 guide to the social expectations surrounding vaping in our post-pandemic world will help you navigate the pitfalls of a potential social misstep.
When You Can Vape
Awareness of your surroundings is vital when you vape, and you can typically expect areas that do not allow smoking to be places where vaping is also not permitted. Keep an eye out for signage asking you not to smoke, as many come with notices below directing you to the nearest smoking area.
However, knowing when you cant vape is more than understanding what the law dictates. Suppose you take your children to a playground in a local park, for example. The social expectations surrounding vaping are the same as you would expect if you were smoking; this means that blowing large clouds of vapour next to the playground will not be looked upon favourably. If you are in a densely populated location and find that you are short on space, the vapour clouds when you use your device will be more noticeable, and you also run the risk of impacting those around you who may have sensitivities or allergies. In these situations we’ve detailed above, vaping is not illegal. Still, they are situations where you will be expected to be more considerate of those around you and vaping discreetly, like using a vape liquid that allows you to blow less visible clouds, would be better. Every vape liquid is different, and some can create larger clouds than others, depending on the hardware that is being used. Check out this guide by AquaVape if you’re asking, ‘are there rules to follow on vape liquids?’
When visiting the homes of friends or relatives and workplaces, the rules are slightly different, and if you’re unsure about vaping, the best thing to do in those situations is to ask permission. It is unlikely that your friends or family will mind you vaping in their homes, but it is reasonable to expect them to be annoyed if you begin without asking permission first. If they do say no, you should respect their position and vape outside instead. At your workplace, there is most likely a rule in place regarding vaping, and it can be expected that most workplaces won’t allow vaping inside. When working in a shop or bar, you interact with the general public throughout your workday, and it is unlikely that your employer will allow vaping due to how closely you work with members of the public. If you are unsure if vaping is allowed in your workplace, contact human resources, speak to your line manager, or check your employee handbook before you vape.
Where You Can’t Vape
Unless stated otherwise, vaping inside schools, police stations, or government buildings are characterised as no-vaping areas under UK law. There are many legal restrictions in place regarding vaping, and it’s crucial to understand the law before your vape, as a lack of knowledge is not considered a viable defence if you find yourself in trouble for vaping somewhere you shouldn’t. The law does not cover every scenario you might encounter, and if you’re unsure, it is best to rely on common sense and ask where you can. In some new businesses, they have often never had an employee that has vaped before, and business owners in this situation usually have very relaxed rules.
As our lives return to normal following the lockdowns, many people have begun going on holiday again. If you are considering travelling to a different country, it’s crucial to look up the rules not only regarding their Covid-19 regulations but their laws surrounding vaping. Over the years, there have been a growing number of countries that have entirely banned vaping. While you may not agree with these laws, they are in place for a reason, and it’s essential that you obey them; this is because the punishments for breaking these laws can range from a fine to imprisonment.