Thinkstock
Image

Electronic Cigarettes Banned on Commercial Flights

March 2, 2016
E-cigarettes are an unregulated product, making the health risks unknown.

The U.S. Department of Transportation explicitly banned the use of electronic cigarettes on commercial flights traveling to and from the United States.

The move clarifies an existing rule that bans the smoking of tobacco products on flights.

“This final rule is important because it protects airline passengers from unwanted exposure to aerosol fumes that occur when electronic cigarettes are used onboard airplanes,” U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx said.

“The department took a practical approach to eliminate any confusion between tobacco cigarettes and e-cigarettes by applying the same restrictions to both.”

The rule bans all forms of e-cigarettes, including cigars and pipes.

The DOT opted to ban e-cigarettes for passenger safety because it said studies have shown that e-cigarette aerosol contains harmful chemicals, including carcinogens.

“The department is particularly concerned that vulnerable populations (such as children, the elderly, and passengers with respiratory issues) would be exposed to the aerosol within a confined space, without the opportunity to avoid the chemicals,” the DOT said.

“While further study is needed to fully understand the risks, the department believes that a precautionary approach is best.”

In fact, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not yet regulate e-cigarettes, so the amount of nicotine and chemicals in them is unclear. However, the FDA has proposed a rule that would give it authority over tobacco products like e-cigarettes.

About the Author

Ginger Christ | Associate Editor

Ginger Christ is an associate editor for EHS Today, a Penton publication.

She has covered business news for the past seven years, working at daily and weekly newspapers and magazines in Ohio, including the Dayton Business Journal and Crain’s Cleveland Business.

Most recently, she covered transportation and leadership for IndustryWeek, a sister publication to EHS Today.

She holds a bachelor of arts in English and in Film Studies from the University of Pittsburgh.

Connect on Google+ | LinkedIn | Twitter

Sponsored Recommendations

June 23, 2025
With the right workplace health and safety training, your organization can reduce risk and protect your employees.
June 23, 2025
This article covers the key steps to build a reliable SDS management program, from organizing your inventory and sourcing updated SDS to ensuring easy access and regular maintenance...
June 23, 2025
It's time to get a bit more granular and start to examine the types of metrics EHS departments should be tracking, starting with lost time injury frequency rate (LTIFR).
June 23, 2025
With the number of lone workers on the rise, here are five facts every employer should know about lone working.

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of EHS Today, create an account today!