Users who discard vapes at CC disposal bins will not be traced: HSA
HSA said this in response to The Straits Times' queries about the "Bin the Vape" initiative, regarding concerns about possible repercussions if vape users surrendered their devices.
Launched by HSA, the Ministry of Health and the People's Association (PA) on July 25, bins were placed at 23 community clubs (CCs) and one residents' network centre around the island.
Possessing, using or buying vapes carries a maximum fine of $2,000, but the authorities said during the launch that no action will be taken against those who voluntarily dispose of their vapes.
On July 26, HSA said: "We would like to assure members of the public that the Health Sciences Authority will not be tracing the identities of any persons who had binned the e-vaporisers.
"We strongly encourage the public to dispose of their e-vaporisers, if any, using these disposal bins as they offer a confidential, secure and responsible disposal method."
The red bin resembles a normal trash bin - but with posters of the initiative plastered on its front and top, promising a safe and confidential disposal of vapes.
A CCTV camera aimed at the bin deters theft of the disposed vapes and tampering, but had sparked concerns among some about being watched or identified.
Privacy issues involving the use of data came up during the Covid-19 pandemic in 2021, regarding data collected by contact tracing app and token TraceTogether.
The authorities had originally said there was no intention to use TraceTogether data as a means of picking up breaches of existing rules, but later said it could be used for criminal investigations.
This was because the Singapore Police Force is empowered under the Criminal Procedure Code to obtain any data, including TraceTogether data, for criminal investigations.
HSA also addressed concerns about theft and tampering of the vape disposal bins.
It said they are locked and secured to fixtures such as pillars. Once the vapes are dropped inside the bins, they will not be retrievable.
Cases of tampering or theft will be referred to the police.
HSA said vapes may contain illicit substances like etomidate or controlled drugs and should be disposed of properly in the bins.
HSA added: "These designated bins ensure these items are properly contained and destroyed, preventing them from being retrieved and potentially misused."
It added these bins will be emptied regularly, and the disposed vapes will be sent to the incineration plants for proper destruction under close supervision.
The "Bin the Vape" initiative is meant to encourage vape users to quit before the law catches up with them.
The authorities noted that etomidate, a listed poison increasingly found in vapes here, will be classified as a Class C illegal drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act in the coming weeks.
On July 25, the authorities reminded vape users and those consuming etomidate to give up their habit immediately.
Members of the public can visit go.gov.sg/bin-vapes to locate the nearest bin.
HSA said the locations are not a reflection of rates of vape usage around Singapore, but were decided based on available and convenient locations island-wide and in consultation with the PA.
The bins will be progressively placed in other locations, such as at institutes of higher learning.
Since July 21, HSA has extended the operating hours for its Tobacco Regulation Branch hotline on 6684-2036 or 6684-2037 to report vaping-related offences.
The hotline operates from 9am to 9pm daily, including on public holidays. HSA has also launched a new online portal to report vaping-related offences at www.go.gov.sg/reportvape
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