Doctors have told a man he was lucky not to have permanently lost his sight after the battery in his vaping device exploded, splashing his face with acid.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
or signup to continue reading
The man, who did not wish to be named, said the incident occurred on June 27 when he was changing the device's battery.
Doctors treated the injury by flushing his eyes with several litres of saline solution, he said.
"They said I was very lucky I wasn't blinded' for life," he said.
"They said it happens more than people think with these vapes."
Vapes are electronic devices that work by heating an internal liquid-containing cartridge, resulting in a breathable vapour.
Advocates of the devices claim vaping is less harmful to health compared to smoking cigarettes.
But others claim vaping can also result in serious health issues stemming from the chemical liquids combusted.
Director of anti-smoking campaign Quit, Abby Smith, said vapes are dangerous to those who use them.
"This incident underscores the serious safety risks associated with the use of vaping products and is why the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) continues to implement stronger safety and quality standards," Ms Smith said.
"While we don't have any data on the number of exploding vaping products in Tasmania, these incidents are not unheard of," she said.
Vaping has been known to cause severe burns, dental and eye injuries and fractures, she said.
A spokesman for the Department of Health confirmed the incident.
"A patient presented to the Emergency Department [on Friday June 27] and has been treated and discharged," the spokesman said.
"The Tasmanian Burns Unit - based at the Royal Hobart Hospital - occasionally sees patients who have sought treatment for vaping-related injuries."
"Anyone who sustains a burn injury is advised to follow ... standard burns first aid actions."
Those included placing the burn under cool running water and applying a clean dressing.
Those suffering more serious burns should call triple-zero, he said.
The young man said doctors expect him to make a full recovery after a period of rest.
New TGA standards for vapes available via prescription came into force from July 1, Ms Smith said.
Pharmacies can only supply vapes that meet the TGA's product standard, according to the TGA.
