Top image: Shiva Bharati Gupta / RICE file photo
Compared to the time-honoured tradition of stepping outside for a smoke break, vaping is a relative newbie in the realm of unhealthy vices.
While vaping remains very much illegal in Singapore, the reality is that many people still do it anyway because of unfettered access to local black markets. And because it’s prohibited, there are no regulations governing its use—including who can purchase vapes and a lack of understanding about its appropriateness in public spaces.
This absence of open discussion can lead to confusion and inconsistency in how vaping is perceived and managed in various settings, including local workplaces. Yes, it’s illegal, and you’re not supposed to vape anywhere anyway. But that’s just how it is.
Opinions on vaping vary significantly. In some office cultures, you might find yourself working amid a haze of guava-flavoured vapour. Some employees are indifferent, viewing it as a modern alternative to smoking; others find it disruptive and unpleasant.
This divergence in views can create tension and discomfort in shared spaces.
Additionally, the health implications of vaping are still being studied, and concerns about second-hand vapour exposure add another layer of complexity to the discussion. While it’s scientifically accurate that vapour from vapes is less harmful than second-hand cigarette smoke, the long-term health effects of vape exposure remain uncertain.
It’s in this uncertainty that employers and employees alike grapple with finding a balance between individual choices and conducive work environments. RICE speaks to Singaporean workers to explore their perspectives on the issue.
“The places I’ve worked never had any hard and fast rules on vaping. Smoking was done outside, but nothing was said about vaping. It was usually done anywhere or wherever was convenient for them.
As someone who doesn’t vape, I’m generally not comfortable with people vaping in indoor locations, especially smaller enclosed spaces with no open ventilation, like air-conditioned rooms and vehicles. Ideally, I think vaping should be done outdoors and in well-ventilated locations.
I don’t share my opinions with my colleagues because they are usually senior higher-ups who have a say in my appraisal and pay. I don’t need any unnecessary tension on top of work. At the end of the day, it’s their life—people can do what they want. I just try to duck out of the way when I see a vapour cloud approaching me.”
— Li Yan, 24
“Is it wrong to say I don’t mind vaping, even in common areas? Look, work is stressful. We’re all coping in different ways—some more self-destructive than others, but who am I to regulate my colleagues?
Understandably, most companies are against it. I used to work in a larger MNC, and there was an intern who vaped in the common office space. The bosses banned it immediately and had to sit down with her to explain why it was unprofessional.”
— Gemma, 28
“As a new dad, quitting cigarettes was crucial for me. The cravings were intense, especially at work, where frequent smoke breaks used to be my way of managing stress. Personally, vaping has been a game-changer, even though it’s technically illegal in Singapore. I’m not saying people should try it, but it’s the only thing that keeps me from going back to cigarettes!
At the office, I’m very mindful about when and where I vape. I don’t do it in common areas or where it might bother someone; I usually step out to a less crowded spot. One time, a colleague thanked me for not smoking anymore—apparently, I used to smell like an ashtray.
I guess at the end of the day, it’s about being considerate and respectful to your colleagues when you feel the need to vape in the office. They understand that it’s helping me stay off cigarettes, so I make sure I’m mindful when I need my quick nicotine fix while working. Eventually, I’ll quit vaping too.”
— Jonathan, 34
“I’m in the creative industry, so vaping around the office is pretty standard, given the type of people working in this field. When I first started this job, it was a bit of a culture shock because it definitely would not fly at my previous workplace.
Here, colleagues vape pretty openly and even share their vapes. I can’t stand cigarettes, but I don’t mind it when my colleagues vape around me. My rationale is that cigarette smoke lingers. With vapes, it’s just a little puff here and there. And I believe they’re a better alternative to smelling the stink of cigarettes.
Sure, there could be unseen effects. But I’m already destroying my body with too much caffeine, an unhealthy diet, and terrible sleep. The occasional vape fumes probably aren’t the most unhealthy thing in my life.”
— Ashley, 29
“As a social smoker, vaping in the office doesn’t bother me. But when I first joined the company, because everyone was vaping freely, I also started to vape as a way to distract myself when I felt stressed. I stopped eventually because I was getting headaches from it.
My colleagues know I’m okay with them vaping around me, but probably not my thoughts about how others who are health-conscious might feel. I am okay with them vaping, but I don’t think I could speak for others who might be affected. We’ve never really talked about this topic openly before, so I think it’s time we enact some proper rules about its usage.”
— Mabel, 35
