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01-12-2020 | Smoking and Nicotine Detoxification | Research article

E-cigarette environmental and fire/life safety risks in schools reported by secondary school teachers

Authors: Maryanne L. Fakeh Campbell, Andrew Sansone, Lauren N. Gonzalez, Kevin R. J. Schroth, Derek G. Shendell

Published in: BMC Public Health | Issue 1/2020

Abstract

Background

To identify if e-cigarette usage is an on-campus problem for secondary schools and evaluate initial school survey responses. More specifically, this survey can aid in identifying where students are seen using e-cigarettes, if smoke alarms have been newly inserted on school property, if smoke alarms have been tampered with to allow for vaping without detection; and, if any e-cigarette fires or explosions have occurred on school property.

Methods

This survey, disseminated to New Jersey secondary school teachers across seven sessions January–July 2019, resulted in 104 complete responses of 109 respondents. The survey was conducted after fire prevention, exit/egress, and life safety portions of “OSHA 10 Plus for General Industry” courses. Survey questions included number of times teachers observed students vaping and location where vaping in last 12 months, fire alarm installation and tampering, and fires or explosions and injuries from vaping/e-cigarette devices.

Results

Many (63%) respondents reported very or moderately common rates of vaping within their schools; however, three of four questions regarding school fire and smoke alarm use specifically to detect vaping had a majority of unsure/I don’t know responses.

Conclusion

Results suggested concerns regarding student vaping and e-cigarette use inside and outside secondary schools. Improved school detection and response are warranted.

Trial registration

Not applicable.

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Title: E-cigarette environmental and fire/life safety risks in schools reported by secondary school teachers
Authors: Maryanne L. Fakeh Campbell
Andrew Sansone
Lauren N. Gonzalez
Kevin R. J. Schroth
Derek G. Shendell
Publication date: 01-12-2020
Publisher: BioMed Central
Keyword: Smoking and Nicotine Detoxification
Published in: BMC Public Health / Issue 1/2020
Electronic ISSN: 1471-2458
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-020-09319-8

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

E-cigarette environmental and fire/life safety risks in schools reported by secondary school teachers

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Trial registration

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Trial registration

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