In the past years, the popularity of vaping has skyrocketed across Singapore. According to the Straits Times, the purchase, use, and possession of vapes have shot up from 5,000 cases in 2022 to 7,900 cases in 2023. That’s a 58% increase in just a year. 

This development has led to an increase in the installation of vape sensor systems to detect the presence of vaping activity and, therefore, discourage it. This article tackles the important role that the said systems play when it comes to public health and safety. Read on. 

Understanding the Vape Craze

Vaping was once marketed as a healthier alternative to smoking. While a myriad of studies suggest that the former is less harmful than the former, it’s still not safe. As a reference, regular cigarettes come with approximately 7,000 chemicals; while those of vapes are not determined, there’s almost no doubt vaping still exposes users to chemicals. 

In addition, a 2019 study that was published in Medical News Today showed that individuals who vaped had higher risks of pulmonary ailments compared to those who didn’t. The study added that vaping may damage the lungs and weaken the immune system.

Putting the said factors into consideration, it is no wonder the Singaporean government is exerting efforts to protect the population against the harmful effects of vaping. 

What are Vape Sensor Systems?

Vape sensors, which also goes by the term vape detectors, are electronic devices that are specifically designed and manufactured to identify chemicals that are produced by vapes or e-cigarettes. They are pretty much similar to smoking sensor systems in a sense that they are usually small, discreet, and are seamlessly integrated in different environments. 

If properly installed, they can monitor air quality and make a specific sound or send a notification to specific personnel. Because of their uses, they have become essential additions in workplaces, schools, and other public areas. 

What are the Benefits of Vape Sensor Systems?

• Enhances Public Safety 

One of the primary benefits of vape sensors is its unique capacity to boost public health as well as safety. This is achieved by accurately detecting aerosols and toxic chemicals that vapes produce. 

Compared to their smoke sensor counterparts, they are packed with more extensive features to distinguish the unique signatures of vape aerosols. 

• Protects Air Quality 

Clean air has become a serious concern in modern society. This is most true when it comes to environments where enormous numbers of individuals gather. Therefore, it can be said that vape sensor systems are essential when it comes to detecting as well as eradicating pollutants that are associated with vapes. 

It should be noted that prolonged exposure to the mentioned substances can be detrimental to pulmonary well-being. This is most true for individuals who have asthma, allergies, and other pre-existing conditions. 

• Cost Efficient

While the initial cost of vape sensor systems can be quite hefty, it should be noted that its benefits can recoup the added costs. For instance, by encouraging a vape-free environment, companies and other money-making institutions can instantly evade added expenses for vape-related issues. They include stained walls and malfunctioning Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems.  

• Fire Prevention

Vape fires, although quite uncommon, is something that should not be taken for granted. Remember, improperly handled and/or malfunctioning vape devices have the potential to cause fire, especially at enclosed spaces. Its dangers are heightened when it catches fire gasoline, propane, flammable liquids, etc. 

This is where vape sensors come in handy. They can prevent accidental fires by triggering alarms when smokes from the said devices are detected, which allows for speedy action to handle the situation. 

• Prevent Youth from Vaping

According to the Straits Times, in 2022 approximately 800 students were referred to the Health Sciences Authority for offences that are associated with vaping. This is a significant increase compared to 2018 and 2019. In both years, offences were below 50.

With the said statistics in mind, it can be said that vaping among the youth is a serious concern that should not be taken lightly. In fact, Singapore, together with Thailand, Japan, Cambodia, and India have completely banned the said activity. 

The utilisation of vape sensors in schools, malls, and other facilities where the youth frequently hangout can, in one way or another, act as a potent deterrent. They can create an environment where young people will find it difficult to vape. 

Summing up

Due to the dangers of vaping, vape sensor systems are found throughout Singapore and elsewhere. In fact, it can be said that their level of importance is similar to those of aggression sensor systems, but in a different regard. 

Also, while there are still challenges present, with continuous technological advancements which include data analytics, it can be said that in the near future, vape sensors will be more versatile and, therefore, more equipped to address vape-related incidents.