iBreathe, one of the UK’s most successful electronic cigarette companies, have responded to news that prisoners in some prisons are being given access to e-cigarettes under a new pilot scheme aimed at banning smoking.

The new scheme has been developed with the long term goal of banning smoking in jails altogether. The project is currently in place in three jails in all and has been created in response to health fears for non-smoking inmates, prison visitors and staff, as well as concern over possible legal ramifications down the line.

The plans were announced previously but quickly shelved as concerns over prison riots developed. The pilot, currently taking place at HMP Stocken, Preston prison and Eastwood Park, could be the beginning of a nationwide policy on smoking.

The policy was campaigned for by the Prison Officer’s Association (POA) who started their calls for a jail ban on smoking in 2007.

A spokesman said: “The PGA welcome the trial of e-cigarettes. Anything that could protect not only staff but other prisoners and visitors from second-hand smoke inhalation is obviously welcome.”

Peter McParlin, association chairman of the POA, argued: “It has to be unacceptable that workers are exposed to the effects of second-hand smoking in their working environment. The association will continue with their campaign for a complete ban on smoking in prisons.”

It’s hoped electronic cigarettes will help the inmates to make the transition to not smoking easier as figures currently suggest that 80% of all inmates in the UK are currently smokers.

Smokers in prison are currently allowed to smoke so long as they’re in their cells because cells are legally classified as “their permanent or temporary homes”.

iBreathe, an Oldham-based seller of electronic cigarettes and accessories, often share their thoughts on news related to e-cigarettes. They believe the devices could make banning smoking in prisons feasible.

A representative for the company said: “One of the biggest problems with smoking is the well-established second hand effects. Unfortunately that’s a big problem in prisons and many non-smoker inmates and prison employees are forced to endure second hand smoke, putting their health at risk.

“Electronic cigarettes have exploded in popularity in recent years and have been used by many people who have stopped smoking. It’s great to see that they’re currently being trialled in prisons as part of an effort to stop people smoking tobacco.”

iBreathe is a prominent seller of electronic cigarettes and accessories. Visit http://www.i-breathe.co.uk/ for more information.