Etiquette and Policies for Vaping in the Workplace and Using Heated Tobacco
Smoking in UK offices was once allowed. However, in 2007, the indoor smoking ban came into effect, prohibiting the smoking of cigarettes in enclosed workplaces.1 When it comes to rules around vaping in the workplace, many adult users are unsure whether it falls under similar regulations. This article will outline all we know about policies around vaping at work, as well as offer some vaping etiquette you may want to keep in consideration when vaping around your colleagues.
Can You Vape In the Workplace?
So, can you vape at work? Unfortunately, the answer isn’t clear cut. One thing we do know is that vaping does not fall under the regulations set out by the 2007 smoking ban.2
Although vaping is not covered by these regulations, workplace vaping policies may differ between employers. Many workplaces have their own rules and regulations around vaping in the office. Therefore, it’s important that you check with your workplace if vaping at work is permitted to avoid any confusion.
Etiquette on Vaping in the Workplace
To keep a comfortable working space for all, it may be a good idea to keep some etiquette points in mind if vaping at work is allowed. It’s important to be considerate of those around you and respect that some might prefer working in a vape-free office.
If your office is a place where vaping is permitted, there may be several polite practices your co-workers might appreciate. For example, refraining from using an e-liquid that’s considered to have a strong smell. Additionally, if your vape produces a large amount of vapour, it may be a good idea to vape near a window, or take breaks between puffs.
If you or your colleagues feel more comfortable vaping outside of the office, try and find an outside area where vaping is permitted.
Alternative Vaping Locations at the Office
Some workplaces offer designated smoking areas where you may be allowed to use your vape too. You may want to check with your relevant superior where you can vape outdoors, and take considerate vaping breaks to reduce the overall interruption to your work day.
If your workplace does not have a designated outdoor smoking area, it may be worth finding a more secluded outdoor place where you’re unlikely to bother others, such as a car park or other outdoor space.
Vaping While Working From Home
Now that many of us have the opportunity to work from home, you may be wondering if it’s appropriate to vape while you’re online. If your workplace does not permit vaping in the office as well as during a meeting, using your vape while you’re on a video call could be considered unprofessional. All workplaces are different and some may be more relaxed than others.
Whether or not you’re allowed to vape in your place of residence also depends on the outlined regulations. If you rent, your tenancy agreement will most likely specify whether or not you’re allowed to smoke or vape on the property. If you’re unsure, it may be best to contact your landlord for further information.
Heated Tobacco at Work
Heated tobacco could be a smoke-free alternative for adult users who would otherwise continue to smoke cigarettes. Heated tobacco products generally heat tobacco to a specific temperature instead of burning it, meaning no combustion occurs.3
When it comes to using heated tobacco devices at work, again it all depends on whether your workplace allows you to or not. Heated tobacco products, alongside e-cigarettes, do not fall under the 2007 ban on smoking indoors, but may be subject to other workplace policies.
If you’re interested in a smoke-free alternative, our IQOS ILUMA device could be an option for you. Unlike cigarettes, IQOS ILUMA does not burn tobacco and therefore produces no smoke. As IQOS ILUMA produces less smell than cigarettes, it is less likely to bother people around you.* What’s more, the IQOS ILUMA is small and compact and is our most robust product compared to previous generations of IQOS.**
With ways of working constantly evolving, it’s no wonder we’re left with questions on whether vaping in the workplace is permitted. Hopefully this article has helped clear up any confusion, but remember - if you’re unsure whether vaping at work is allowed or not, do not hesitate to talk to your superior or another workplace manager.
* 85% agreement amongst 674 adult consumers in Japan and Italy. 2020 - 2021
** Based on design verification tests, 2021.
Smoke-free products are not risk-free and provide nicotine, which is addictive. The best decision any adult smoker can make is to quit tobacco and nicotine use altogether. Smoke-free products are not alternatives to quitting and are not designed as cessation aids.
This article is for general information and educational purposes. Some of the information in this article is based on external, third-party sources and we make no representations or warranties of any kind regarding the accuracy, validity or completeness of such information.
Sources:
1 Health and Safety Executive - Advice on Smoking at Work
2 Public Health England - Use of E-cigarettes in Public Places and Workplaces
3 PMI Science - What’s The Difference Between Heated Tobacco Products and E-cigarettes?
