OPSS launches campaign promoting safe vape use and disposal
March 11, 2026
A new OPSS campaign looks to raise awareness of safety issues with vapes (Photo: GOV.UK)
The UK’s Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) has launched a new public awareness campaign aimed at improving vape safety and encouraging responsible disposal.
The initiative focuses particularly on younger consumers and highlights risks linked to improper charging, damaged batteries and incorrect disposal of vaping devices.
According to OPSS, the campaign is intended to reduce incidents such as battery fires, injuries and environmental harm associated with unsafe use and disposal of vape products.
New guidance materials encourage consumers to adopt simple habits that can help minimise safety risks.
Key messages include storing used devices safely until they can be recycled, avoiding disposal in general waste or household recycling, and asking retailers about vape take-back schemes.
Consumers are also advised to remove batteries where possible and to unplug devices once they are fully charged.
The campaign further encourages people to use dedicated recycling points available in some vape shops, supermarkets and other recycling locations.
OPSS said raising awareness of safe handling practices is an important step in reducing fire risks linked to lithium-ion batteries commonly used in vape devices.
The campaign is being promoted across social media using hashtags including #SmallHabitsBigDifference, #SafeVapeDisposal, #DontBinThatVape and #BatteryFires.
