Can You Vape in Pubs?

Vaping has become an alternative to smoking in recent years, and it is now commonly seen in social settings such as pubs. This has led to discussions about whether or not vaping is permitted in pubs, and in this article, we will explore the relevant regulations, public opinions, and health considerations regarding vaping in UK pubs.

In the UK, smoking is regulated under a comprehensive smoking ban in public places. However, vaping falls into a grey area as there is no nationwide law that explicitly forbids the use of e-cigarettes indoors. This means that the decision to allow vaping indoors is generally up to individual establishment owners, resulting in varying vaping policies across pubs in the UK due to the absence of strict regulations.

In the UK, pub owners typically have the discretion to allow or prohibit vaping. Large pub chains may have consistent policies across all of their pubs, while independent pubs often base their rules on the preferences of their regular customers. Some pubs welcome vapers, seeing e-cigarette use as a non-intrusive alternative to smoking that doesn't compromise the atmosphere or comfort of other patrons. On the other hand, some establishments may ban vaping indoors to maintain a specific ambience or out of concern for the health and safety of their customers.

JD Wetherspoon has decided to prohibit the use of e-cigarettes in all its pubs. The reason behind this decision is the difficulty the bar staff faces in differentiating between the smoke of traditional cigarettes and the vapour of e-cigarettes. The company believes that using e-cigarettes indoors would require constant monitoring by staff, which could distract them from their other duties. Therefore, customers who wish to use e-cigarettes are requested to use the designated outdoor smoking areas provided by the pub.

There is a difference of opinion among the public regarding vaping in pubs. Some patrons appreciate the option to vape indoors, especially during the colder months, while others prefer a vape-free environment, citing concerns about the smell of the vapour and potential health risks, which remain under study. The social norms surrounding vaping are still developing, with vapers and non-vapers alike trying to navigate this new territory.