Latest news with #HealthSciencesAuthority
New Paper
3 days ago
- New Paper
Users who discard vapes at CC disposal bins will not be traced: HSA
Those who throw their vapes into designated disposal bins installed around Singapore can be assured their identities will not be traced, said the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) on July 26. 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 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
Straits Times
3 days ago
- Straits Times
HSA will not trace vape users who throw away e-vaporisers in disposable bins at 23 CCs
Find out what's new on ST website and app. SINGAPORE - Those who throw their vapes into designated disposal bins installed around Singapore can be assured their identities will not be traced, said the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) on July 26. 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. Top stories Swipe. Select. Stay informed. Singapore Woman taken to hospital after car falls into sinkhole on Tanjong Katong Road Singapore Students hide vapes in underwear, toilet roll holders: S'pore schools grapple with vaping scourge Singapore 'I've tried everything': Mum helpless as son's Kpod addiction spirals out of control Singapore NDP 2025: How Benjamin Kheng is whisked from Marina Bay to Padang in 10 minutes by boat, buggy Singapore Almost half of planned 30,000 HDB flats in Tengah to be completed by end-2025: Chee Hong Tat Singapore From libraries to living rooms: How reading habits take root in underserved S'pore children Asia Thai-Cambodia clashes spread along frontier as death toll rises Asia Thousands rally in downtown Kuala Lumpur for resignation of PM Anwar 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 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
Straits Times
4 days ago
- Health
- Straits Times
Vape disposal bins at 23 CCs for users to surrender e-vaporisers without facing penalties
Find out what's new on ST website and app. The bins will be progressively placed in other locations, such as institutes of higher learning. SINGAPORE - Members of the public can throw away vapes in new bins installed within community centres around Singapore without fear of punishment. On July 25, the Ministry of Health, Health Sciences Authority (HSA) and People's Association launched the 'Bin The Vape' initiative. Bins have been placed at 23 community clubs (CCs) and one residents' network centre around the island, including in Punggol, Boon Lay, Mountbatten, Woodlands and Bishan. They will be progressively placed in other locations, such as at institutes of higher learning. 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. In a joint news release, the authorities said: 'In the meantime, those who are using e-vaporisers and especially consuming etomidate should give up their habit as soon as possible.' The initiative is meant to encourage vape users to quit before the law catches up with them. Top stories Swipe. Select. Stay informed. Singapore SMRT to pay lower fine of $2.4m for EWL disruption; must invest at least $600k to boost reliability Singapore MRT service changes needed to modify 3 East-West Line stations on Changi Airport stretch: LTA Singapore S'pore could have nuclear energy 'within a few years', if it decides on it: UN nuclear watchdog chief Asia Recap: Evacuees recount explosions and separations as Thai-Cambodia clashes continue for second day Life 'Do you kill children?': Even before independence, S'pore has always loved its over-the-top campaigns Singapore Lung damage, poor brain development, addiction: What vaping does to the body Singapore Fine for couple whose catering companies owed $432,000 in salaries to 103 employees Singapore Kopi, care and conversation: How this 20-year-old helps improve the well-being of the elderly Possessing, using or buying vapes carries a maximum fine of $2,000, but the authorities said no action will be taken against those who voluntarily dispose of their vapes. Members of the public can visit to locate the nearest bin. 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. Its lid is secured with a lock, and a metal chain secures the bin to a pillar or other fixtures. A CCTV camera aimed at the bin deters theft of the disposed vapes and tampering. The media was invited to witness the installation of one such bin at Canberra Community Club on July 25. Canberra resident and retiree Kwan Kong Hua, 68, is not convinced, though, doubting that people who spent money on vapes would voluntarily dispose of their devices. Following the increased detection in Singapore of electronic vaporisers containing substances such as etomidate and other controlled drugs, Mr Kwan called for tougher enforcement efforts against vaping. The former delivery driver, who quit cigarette smoking about a decade ago as it affected his health, is especially concerned when he sees young vapers around the estate. Mr Kwan said: 'Sometimes, they take several puffs and stumble around unsteadily. Any kind of smoking is really harmful for their health.' Another resident, who gave his name only as Mr Adzhar, 24, knows people who vape. He said some may not give up vaping because they see it as a cheaper alternative to smoking cigarettes. Mr Adzhar, who is interning at a transport company, added: 'It's 50-50 (chance of people using the bin). There may also be people who throw their vapes to avoid being fined.' The idea for the bins was first adopted on Nov 18, 2023, by MacPherson Youth Network's 'Drop it, Stop it!' anti-vape campaign. It was co-organised with youth charity Bilby Community Development. Then MacPherson MP Tin Pei Ling had said the group worked with HSA and the Health Promotion Board (HPB) to waive vaping-related penalties for those who discarded their vapes. Sembawang GRC MP Ng Shi Xuan, who was then a grassroots leader in the MacPherson Youth Network, told The Straits Times on July 25 that the two-month campaign saw 70 individuals voluntarily surrender their vapes, exceeding the target of 50 people. Of the 70 who disposed of their vapes, 14 young people said they wanted to quit vaping but did not know how to begin, added Mr Ng. He said he was heartened to see the idea scaled up nationwide, and added: 'This showed us that with the right support, many are willing to take that first step. 'Don't wait until it's too late. Step forward and surrender your vape, the community is here to help you.' Mr Gopal Mahey, a senior counsellor at the Centre for Psychotherapy who works with young people who vape, said the bins could become bridges for those who need professional help. But he noted that the presence of CCTV cameras could trigger anxiety about being watched or identified, and some young people may fear the footage would be used against them. To address this, Mr Mahey said signs could be put up to reinforce confidentiality and encourage young people to speak to a trusted adult if they are struggling. Said the counsellor: 'It's also important to supplement physical interventions like bins with clear and strong messaging and assurance.' Those who need help to quit vaping can join HPB's I Quit programme by calling the QuitLine on 1800-438-2000. Participants need not worry about being prosecuted, as it does not presume they are using or have used vaping products. But those caught using or possessing such items will be prosecuted. 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 now operates from 9am to 9pm daily, including on public holidays. HSA has also launched a new online portal to report vaping-related offences at If you have a story to share about vapes, e-mail us at stnewsdesk@
AsiaOne
4 days ago
- AsiaOne
Daily roundup: Nasi padang chain Hjh Maimunah to introduce colour-coded price labels — and other top stories today, World News
Stay in the know with a recap of our top stories today. 1. Nasi padang chain Hjh Maimunah to introduce colour-coded price labels Popular nasi padang chain Hjh Maimunah will soon be launching colour-coded price labels for its dishes... » READ MORE 2. Etomidate found in blood of 2 people involved in fatal Punggol Road accident in May: HSA Etomidate has been detected in the blood samples of two people involved in a fatal road accident in Punggol Road in May, the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) said on July 25... » READ MORE 3. Michelin Guide Singapore 2025: Sushi Sakuta promoted to 2 stars, 1 restaurant earns its first star After the announcement of the Michelin Bib Gourmand results on July 17, it's now time for the full selection of the Michelin Guide Singapore 2025, now in its ninth edition... » READ MORE 4. Trump, McMahon and Undertaker pay tribute to Hulk Hogan Donald Trump and wrestlers Vince McMahon and The Undertaker have added to the flood of tributes to Hulk Hogan — as a frantic 911 call ahead of the WWE hero's death was released... » READ MORE editor@
AsiaOne
4 days ago
- Health
- AsiaOne
Vape disposal bins available at 24 locations; users who surrender devices will not face penalty, Singapore News
The Ministry of Health, Health Sciences Authority (HSA) and People's Association have launched a campaign encouraging vape users to kick the habit and safely dispose their devices in designated bins set up at 24 locations island-wide. Those who surrender their devices by binning them, or voluntarily seek support for quitting, will not face any penalties for doing so, said the authorities. Starting July 25, disposal bins have been placed at 23 Community Clubs and one Residents' Network Centre for members of the public to voluntarily dispose of vapes. This comes amid fresh public concern over vapes laced with etomidate, an anaesthetic agent that can cause seizures and psychosis. Etomidate will be listed as a Class C drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act in the next few weeks, said Health Minister Ong Ye Kung on July 20. [[nid:720403]] Ahead of this, HSA is encouraging users of e-vaporiser to give up their devices and related components and quit vaping through the new initiative called Bin the Vape. Bins will also be progressively placed at other locations such as the institutes of higher learning, added the health authorities. Members of the public can visit HSA's website to find their nearest bin. Vape users who want to quit and are looking for support services can approach WE CARE Community Services, Singapore Anti-Narcotics Association, the Institute of Mental Health or the Quitline counsellors at 1800 438 2000 for help. Persons caught using etomidate-laced vapes once the substance is listed as a Class C drug will face mandatory supervision and rehabilitation and repeat offenders can be prosecuted and subject to at least a year's jail. Those caught selling, distributing or importing etomidate-laced e-vaporisers will be subject to more severe penalties, including jail of up to 20 years and caning. [[nid:720617]]
