EU Commission proposes adding vaping to outdoor bans

The European Commission has made recommendations on indoor and outdoor smoking bans that would put vaping on the same footing as smoking.

Previous recommendations already include bans on smoking in indoor workspaces and some outdoor spaces. The new recommendations, which apply to any aerosol-emitting device whether it contains nicotine or not, would result in severe restrictions on places where vaping can occur.

The new guidelines would see smoking, as well as vaping and other emerging products that product an aerosol (such as heated tobacco products) banned in indoor workspaces and a significantly expanded list of outdoor areas, including both partially covered and enclosed spaces.  These areas would include rooftops, balconies, porches, and patios that are associated with public spaces like restaurants, bars, and cafes.

Public transport hubs including bus stops and airports are also included, as well as outdoor areas associated with educational settings like universities, health-care settings like hospitals and nursing homes and recreational areas where children are present.

The EU does not have the power to ban vaping or smoking. It can only make recommendations to member states. The latest recommendations expand on 2009 guidelines intended to cut exposure to second-hand smoke in public spaces. These recommendations have been introduced to various degrees across the EU. Because although the Commission can make recommendations, it is up to the member state if and how to implement them.

Place where vaping would be banned:

• Indoor spaces
• Outdoor spaces of restaurants, bars and cafes
• Bus, tram and train stops
• Any outdoor associated to a place of work
• Any outdoor area in which members of the public are likely to congregate
• Spaces associated with buildings that are open to the public
• Private cars
• Any educational facilities, including universities
• Any outdoor spaces related to healthcare including hospitals, nursing homes and other such places
• Designated outdoor recreational areas where children may be present