Calls to Scottish Government for 'vape detectors' to be installed in schools amid fears of 'vaping epidemic'

The Scottish Government have been accused of “fuelling the vaping epidemic among young people” amid calls for the installation of vape detector systems in schools.

A company which creates detectors specifically designed to detect the vaper from e-cigarettes has called on ministers to allow for their installation in schools.

Simon and Jean Hassett, founders of VapeGuardian vape detectors, say that their call to allow Scottish schools to order and install their device has not been listened to.

They say their products have yielded success in cracking down on young people vaping in unpoliced areas, such as school toilets and that schools around Scotland have expressed interest in their installation.

However, the Scottish Government say responsibility for the school estate is a matter for local authorities and the government has no role in approving the installation of vape detectors.

VapeGuardian devices have already been installed in other schools around the UK and Ireland.

The vape sensor designer said vapes are “creating a generation of nicotine addicts” and stopping children from vaping in difficult to police areas, especially in school, is essential to prevention

Simon Hassett, founder of VapeGuardian said: “My wife and I have four children – our eldest is ten, so we have our own concerns about the vaping epidemic, especially as she enters secondary school, and we know that we’re not alone.

“That is why we’ve developed a vape detector system, safeguarding program and educational materials for schools which can help prevent vaping happening in unpoliced areas, where teenagers congregate, even during lesson time and to support offenders to combat their addiction.”

He added: “While we feel that the government’s consultation on vaping is a welcome development to protect young people from the ugly truths of vaping, it doesn’t go far enough.

“Not only do we need to see an outright ban on disposable vapes, but the government also need to acknowledge physical, mental, and oral health dangers from vaping.

“Then they need to launch an education program around those dangers. We also need the devolution of vaping to smoking cessation with e-cigarettes available on prescription only.

“Anything less will not protect children from predatory marketing techniques. Schools need to be provided with proper education around the pitfalls of vaping, along with better procedures to handle vaping incidents and support addicted children so they can quit vaping.”