Lawyer: ‘E-cigs’ pose possible health risk

The sale of battery-operated E-Cigarettes, also known as e-cigs, is unregulated in Ireland, according to a product liability solicitor.

Liam Moloney, who is based in Naas, Co Kildare, said it had recently been reported in Florida, USA, that one exploded in a man’s mouth, causing him severe burns to his face and tongue.

Mr Moloney said the imitation products contained no tobacco but a puff on one triggered a process that heated propylene glycol and varying levels of nicotine, and then released a vapour that resembled smoke, which the user then inhaled.

He said they were promoted and sold in shops and online, and were produced in flavours such as cherry to chocolate, which had led to claims they were being sold to children.

Mr Moloney said manufacturers had touted e-cigs as a healthy alternative to smoking or as an aid to quit cigarettes, but health organisations have claimed they come with dangers.

He said that in the US, health authorities had already concluded that e-cigs posed acute health risks.

“We know very little about these devices and what they deliver to people and it has been confirmed to me by the Irish Tobacco Control Office that they have no role in regulating the marketing of them.

“It is reported that they have caused potentially serious problems, including racing pulse, dizziness, slurred speech, mouth ulcers, heartburn, sore throat, and coughing.”

Manufacturers had been sent letters from health authorities in the US, stating that e-cigs were devices requiring proof that they were safe and effective before they could be sold there.

Mr Moloney said the Department of Health should ensure that any of these products being sold in Ireland have been properly tested to prove they do not pose a fire or any other health hazard.

“While e-cigarettes have the potential for significant benefits I would like to see the health risk better assessed. At a minimum they should carry warning labels advising consumers that the potential benefits and risks have not been fully investigated.”

The Department of Health said it was up to the manufacturer to ensure the product was safe. It said it had no role in regulating the devices.