Student vaping has reached unprecedented levels in Canadian schools, presenting a persistent and escalating challenge. Despite the Smoke-Free Ontario Act, 2017's prohibition of e-cigarette use in enclosed public spaces, including schools and related areas, the prevalence of vaping among students continues to rise. Although perceived as less harmful than traditional cigarette smoking, vaping poses significant health risks, particularly concerning second and third-hand exposure.
Youth vaping correlates with heightened susceptibility to tobacco and other substance use, mental health disorders, as well as pulmonary and cardiovascular diseases, along with unintentional injuries. The chemical compounds present in both e-liquids and aerosols are known to be hazardous, toxic, and carcinogenic, impacting not only the vaper but also those exposed second-hand. Notably, cancer-causing nitrosamines have been detected in the urine of non-vapers, underscoring the extent of potential harm.3 Third-hand exposure, occurring when toxic residues settle on surfaces post-vaping, further compounds health risks, as ingestion, inhalation, or skin absorption of these residues can lead to adverse effects.3 These health hazards are crucial considerations, especially concerning their long-term effects on both vapers and bystanders, particularly vulnerable populations such as younger children and individuals with compromised immune systems.
In response to the escalating trend of vaping among students, Ontario has recently announced an increased allocation of funding to support an initiative aimed at prohibiting the use of e-cigarettes or vaping within school premises. Alongside the explicit prohibition of e-cigarettes in educational environments, Ontario is addressing the rising prevalence of vaping among students by committing CA$30 million over three years (2024-25 to 2026-27). This investment seeks to furnish schools with enhanced security measures, encompassing the installation of security cameras, improved lighting, and the deployment of vape detectors. Furthermore, the government is fortifying regulations pertaining to students found in possession of or using vaping devices or traditional cigarettes. As part of these measures, students will be mandated to surrender such products, while parents will be promptly notified of the situation.
But How Does Vape Detection Work?
Vape detection technology operates by deploying sensors strategically across school campuses, including areas like restrooms and stairwells, where vaping commonly occurs. These sensors can be installed even in spaces where cameras are restricted due to privacy concerns. They function by monitoring the ambient air for the chemical signatures associated with smoke, vape, or tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), rendering them immune to attempts to conceal vaping through aerosols.
These sensors identify vape presence by detecting increases in total volatile organic compounds (TVOCs), notably influenced by the principal components of vape liquid: Vegetable Glycerin (VG) and Propylene Glycol (PG). Various ratios of VG:PG have been tested, with industry norms ranging from 50:50 to 70:30 yielding satisfactory results. Additionally, vape detection relies on the measurement of particulate matter (PM1.0, PM2.5, and PM10) and Formaldehyde (CH2O) levels in the air, with the CH2O sensor demonstrating heightened sensitivity to test vapors compared to the TVOC Sensor. The PM10 value is stimulated to a much greater degree, 30-50% better than smaller sizes. Given the prevalence of enhanced HVAC systems in classrooms post-COVID-19, positioning vape detectors near return ducts is advisable for optimal efficacy.
Moreover, these sensors often incorporate broader air quality monitoring capabilities, such as detecting overall indoor air quality (IAQ). Devices like WellStat IAQ monitors can accurately measure particulate matters, relative humidity, CH2O, CO, CO2, O3, NO2, and TVOC levels. WellStat's advanced design enables precise detection of vaping molecules both indoors and outdoors. School administrators can customize threshold settings to receive real-time alerts via SMS and email, with all sensor data accessible through WellStat's platform. This data is presented chronologically, offering administrators a comprehensive overview of vaping incidents, accessible 24/7 via computer dashboard or mobile app. In the event of detection, alerts can be promptly dispatched to designated faculty members and on-campus security, facilitating swift response protocols.
References:
¹ https://www.camh.ca/-/media/files/vaping-secondary-educator-resource-en-pdf.pdf
² https://cps.ca/en/documents/position/protecting-children-and-adolescents-against-the-risks-of-vaping
³ https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Alberta/Pages/Second-Hand-and-Third-Hand-Smoke-and-Vapour.aspx