The use and charging of e-cigarettes in University buildings and vehicles is prohibited, with immediate effect. The reasons for this prohibition are:
The British Medical Association has concerns about the use of e-cigarettes and has recommended that the existing smoke-free legislation in place in the UK be extended to include vapour from e-cigarettes. As an interim measure, they encourage employers to implement organisation-wide policies prohibiting the use of e-cigarettes in the workplace.
There have been numerous incidents (including one in a Sheffield Hallam University building) where e-cigarettes have exploded whilst being charged, resulting in injuries and fires.
The above prohibition has been accepted by University Trade Union representatives and by the University Health, Safety and Welfare Committee. The University No Smoking Policy has also been amended, as necessary.