The use of e-cigarettes near hospitals must strictly comply with local regulations and hospital rules. In most cases, there are clear restrictions. The following is a specific analysis:
First, the no-smoking regulations within and around the hospital
Comprehensive smoking ban policy
Most hospitals in our country implement smoke-free management. For instance, Dongying District Central Hospital and Jinan Children’s Hospital have clearly stipulated that smoking is completely prohibited within the hospital premises (including both indoor and some outdoor areas), and e-cigarettes are also included in the control scope. Some hospitals require that visitors are not allowed to bring lighters into the examination areas and wards to prevent any form of smoking.
Specific area restrictions
Even if the area around the hospital has not been clearly designated as a no-smoking zone, local public place smoking control regulations still need to be followed. For instance, Shanghai has included e-cigarettes in the regulatory scope of the “Regulations on Smoking Control in Public Places”, prohibiting their use in indoor public places, indoor workplaces, inside public transportation, and some outdoor areas (such as the waiting areas of public transportation where people gather). If the area around the hospital falls into this category, its use is prohibited.
Second, health and safety risks
Hazards of Second-hand smoke
The aerosols released by e-cigarettes contain harmful substances such as nicotine, heavy metals, and volatile organic compounds, which may cause second-hand and third-hand smoke hazards to patients, medical staff, and other visitors in hospitals. This is not conducive to the recovery of patients and may even aggravate their conditions.
Potential safety hazards
Hospitals are places with a high concentration of people, numerous devices and a large amount of flammable materials. When using electronic cigarettes, they may produce open flames or high temperatures, posing a risk of fire. In addition, electronic aerosol may also interfere with medical equipment such as smoke alarms in hospitals, affecting their normal operation.
Third, legal liability and penalties
Penalty for violation
Using e-cigarettes in no-smoking areas may result in penalties such as fines. For instance, in Shanghai, it is stipulated that those who smoke in no-smoking areas and refuse to listen to persuasion will be fined by the relevant regulatory authorities. Those who disrupt social order or obstruct law enforcement may also face penalties for public security administration.
Hospital management measures
Hospitals usually have tobacco control supervisors who are responsible for patrolling and dissuading smoking behavior. For those who refuse to correct their behavior, the hospital may report to the health supervision department for punishment in accordance with regulations, and even include it in their personal credit records.