Illegal Vaping Products
Tuesday 17th May 2022
'disposable vapes’ / ‘nicotine puffs’ / ‘Geek Bars’
There has been a recent rise in reports across the UK of school children using vaping products. These products are commonly referred to as ‘disposable vapes, ‘nicotine puffs’, or ‘Geek Bars’. This latter name is an actual trade name but is sometimes used for all brands.
The law is clear - no nicotine vapour product should be sold to anyone under the age of 18.
Some of the products have been found to contain an excessive amount of nicotine which is harmful in continual consumption. Some are unregistered, which means the necessary safety data has not been provided to the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) before placing them on the market.
Some of the vapes look similar to a highlighter pen or USB flash drive. An example is shown below. The price, design, and flavours of these vapes, combined with widespread publicity on social media, make them particularly attractive to young people.
The Trading Standards Service would like to further understand the presence of these products in Wiltshire, and if they have been identified within your school. We are particularly keen to understand where these products are coming from and who may be selling them. Any information on particular products, photos etc. would be appreciated.
Information can be sent to tradingstandards@wiltshire.gov.uk
This email can also be used for any further queries or concerns in relation to these products
e.cigs information for schools - Trading Standards Wiltshire
Disposable vapes flyer - Trading Standards South West
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