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Vaping is a relatively recent phenomenon and, as with everything new that could potentially go into our bodies, some people are concerned that it's not a particularly healthy practice. This extends to those that don't vape themselves, but worry about second-hand vapour. With this in mind we're taking a look at the facts to see whether passive vaping is something to be worried about, or not even a matter of concern.
Updated 4th March 2020
What is second hand vaping?
Passive vaping is the act of inhaling vapour from an e-cigarette. An e-cig that is being used by someone close in proximity to you. The worry about passive vaping comes from health warnings about the potential risks of inhaling second-hand smoke a few years ago. During which time the public were informed about the risks of smoking around other people. How this made them more likely to suffer from certain illnesses linked to the use of tobacco.
If you passively inhale vapour from someone who is using nicotine, you will inhale some nicotine too. However the amount of nicotine you inhale from some using a vape is only a fraction of the amount you would inhale if someone were to smoke close to you.
What goes into an e-cigarette
To use a vape you must have e-liquid. This e-liquid produces vapour, rather than being a combustible system such as a cigarette, which then produces smoke. Typically, e-liquid consists of a base of either Propylene Glycol, Vegetable Glycerin, or a combination of the two.
This is then combined with natural or artificial flavours to create interesting flavours. To this some people then choose to e-liquids with added nicotine, but this is optional depending on what you want to use your e-cig for. The best thing to do is try a variety of combinations from a quality manufacturer, given the breadth of available choices, you are bound to find a flavour that suits you.
What does science say about passive vaping?
Studies are still ongoing on this topic. Those that have been completed so far strongly indicate that passive vaping poses little danger, if any. In fact, what they have managed to show thus far is that passive vaping is a non-existent problem. With 'no apparent risk to human health from e-cigarette emissions based on the compounds analysed.'
How to avoid second hand vape smoke.
If you are a none vape who wants to avoid second hand vape smoke completely, simply avoid anyone who is vaping.
If you are in close proximity to someone who is vaping, ask them polity if they would not vape around you. Or point the vaper in your life to our politeness guide below.
Passive vaping politeness
Science says there is no risk from second hand vapour. But passive vaping is still not as healthy as inhaling clean air. Even if it is much better for you than inhaling cigarette smoke. Which has been linked to multiple illnesses over the years. If you're a vaper it's up to you to understand that many people don't like to be surrounded by passive vape.
Practice polite vaping and ask those around you whether it's OK for you to vape in their vicinity. Refrain from vaping in areas where there are lots of people close together. Make sure you're clear on the rules about the use of e-cigarettes in your local pubs, bars and restaurants.
Are you concerned about passive vaping? Let us know why in the comments.
