A Guide to Good Vaping Etiquette

The Healthy Ireland Survey 2019, funded by the Department of Health , found that the number of people who vape is estimated at more than 246,889. Although vaping is an alternative option for adult nicotine consumers, the regulations on when and where it is allowed to vape are often vague, especially regarding Vaping Indoors.

To ascertain the public's opinion on the matter, Vuse conducted a study to determine what is and isn't socially acceptable when vaping in public, thus allowing adult nicotine consumers to use their Vuse vapes in accordance with the appropriate etiquette.

The proper way to vape in public

Vaping has caused a lot of confusion, with 58% of vapers needing to be made aware of the correct protocol for public use. Even more, 61% agree that it is a complex social situation. To help, Debrett's, a premier authority on etiquette, has partnered with Vuse to provide recently updated advice on the correct ways to vape in public. Here are 7 tips for polite and considerate vaping.

Read on for 7 helpful tips for considerate vaping etiquette.

People who vape want to do the right thing

It was gratifying to learn that most vapers attempt to vape appropriately in public. We asked what people would do if it needed to be clarified if they could vape in a particular place. Almost four in ten (38%) said they'd ask permission, while a more significant amount (40%) assumed they weren't allowed and held off. A mere 16% indicated they'd vape until somebody informed them it wasn't acceptable.

Of the survey's total respondents, including those who don't vape, three-fourths believed that it is important to seek permission from those around before vaping in public. Forty per cent of the participants felt that permission should be asked for all the time. At the same time, the other 35% stated that it should only be done in certain conditions. This aligns with the first suggestion of Debrett's guide for vapers - if one is uncertain, one should ask.

7 top tips for vaping etiquette

1. If in doubt, ask
2. Respect personal space
3. Know your audience
4. Defer to your hosts
5. Remember, food and vaping don’t mix
6. Work-based vaping looks vapid
7. Respect other views

1. If in doubt, ask

In Ireland, there are no laws stopping people from vaping in public. Nevertheless, specific organizations, transport networks and hospitality venues may have their own policies. As a result, it is essential to be mindful and polite when asking if it is permissible to vape in pubs, restaurants, hotels, offices, movie theatres, taxis or public transportation.

It is best to accept it politely when you are informed that vaping is not allowed. People will be thankful for your courtesy and thoughtfulness if you ask politely. 

To avoid having vapour blown into people's faces, it would be sensible not to vape in a cramped area. This includes being in lifts or restrooms. It is also suggested to not use vaping devices in medical facilities or any other type of healthcare facility to show respect for other people's private space.

2. Respect personal space

Vaping produces clouds of vapour, but it is not considered polite to blow them into other people's faces or to fill the space around them. Enjoy your e-liquid flavour but be aware that it might have a strong odour that others might not like as much as you do. or virtual.

3. Know your audience

If you vape, the vapour's smells, accessories and visual aspect could be enticing. Other adults who vape may be just as enthusiastic about these things, but it is best to be cautious when discussing it with those who are not. Be aware that many people are interested in vaping and be mindful of whom you choose to talk to. Suppose your companions' expressions become vacant, and they make excuses to leave. In that case, you have likely gone too far with your monologue and become a vaping bore.

4. Defer to your hosts

Suppose you receive hospitality (an invite to someone's residence or a journey in their automobile). In that case, it is best to adhere to the conventions of being a courteous guest. Remember to ask permission to vape first and be mindful of your vaping habits. Open a window to let in air if you are vaping, and don't leave any vaping devices around. Lastly, if your hosts ask that you not vape, please respect their wishes and comply - it is their space, and, as such, they have the right to make that request.

5. Remember, food and vaping don’t mix

When eating, drinking, cooking, or observing someone else in the process of cooking, refrain from vaping since the aromas of the food are essential in enjoying its preparation. Furthermore, it is inappropriate to vape in the immediate aftermath of a meal, at home or in a restaurant, as all the diners still enjoy the scents and flavours of their food.

6. Work-based vaping looks vapid

When it comes to vaping in professional settings, it is best to avoid vaping unless your boss has allowed it. For instance, during job interviews or important meetings, it's wise to get rid of any potential distractions. Vaping may portray a lack of concentration, and your colleagues and superiors may think that your attention is not on the task at hand, regardless of if it is face-to-face or online.

7. Respect other views

We have recently become far more conscious of our physical distance from those around us. Some individuals are content with being near those around them. In contrast, others may be more guarded of their private space and could be displeased by people vaping in the vicinity. You may disagree with this outlook; however, being open to and accommodating other people's views is of utmost importance.

Enjoy vaping, but be considerate

The two essential tips for being considerate while vaping are recognising when it is inappropriate and showing respect for other people's views. 8 in 10 vapers (79%) concur that they are mindful of others when vaping. However, nearly 3/4 (74%) of vapers admit that they only sometimes consider other people's opinions before vaping. This includes half of vapers who occasionally accept vaping without a thought for the people around them but claim to do so unintentionally (being thoughtless is inconsiderate). 24% of vapers assert that vaping is not an issue without considering how it may affect other people.

The survey results show that 55% of respondents are okay with someone vaping near them in public, but 60% think this is inconsiderate because of the smell. This suggests that, although some may enjoy certain flavours, not everyone will share the sentiment. Fortunately, most people in the survey (55%) consider vapers courteous. To ensure the best practices, Debrett's has provided some helpful tips. Following these guidelines will demonstrate that vapers are considerate and understand the importance of good manners.

Visit our FAQs page for the answers to your common vaping questions, or explore our guide to vaping on planes and airports and our indoor vaping guide for more helpful advice.