Product Safety Resources

A detailed summary of the arrangements in place to make notifications outside the UK, but the initial obligation is on a business to meet its overseas notification obligations.

(Note: this guidance applies to CURRENT products and will be superseded by the Environment Protection (Single Use Vapes) Regulations which come into effect on the 1st June 2025)

European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) guidance on identifying and naming substances.

An introduction from the Tyre Industry Federation to applicable regulations in England and Wales.

This guidance outlines how retailers can source, sell and dispose of vapes (otherwise known as e-cigarettes) responsibly.

Things to consider when buying and using products.

The role and responsibilities of the Single point of contact (SPOC) and the Tobacco Products Expert Panel, together with its members and participants.

The Chartered Trading Standards Institute share a brief update on vapes and the next steps.

An OPSS template letter to assist Trading Standards Officers when writing to a business premises that they believe is not complying with Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment legislation.

Slides to accompany an OPSS presentation from 28.07.2025 which outline the environmental impact of button batteries through an explanation of their lifecycle. It also details the environmental regulations covering the acceptable content of Button and Coin Batteries and appropriate packaging, and WEEE regulations concerning takeback scheme requirements.

Single-use vape ban formal warnings note - Letter to be inserted in Local letter template.

Guidance by the National Product Safety Group (NPSG) on personal light electric vehicles (PLEVs).

Notes and Actions taken at the OPSS Product Safety Group on March 6th 2025. Please note that it is not formal DBT or OPSS guidance. Only the court of law can make a final decision on the interpretation of law and regulations.

Templates and notices for use with Single Use Vape Regulations.

From 1 June 2025, single-use (disposable) vape products will be banned in the UK, as the Environmental Protection (Single-use Vapes) Regulations 2024 take effect. This measure aims to reduce plastic waste and promote more sustainable vaping options. It marks a significant step towards environmental responsibility within the vaping industry. This guidance outlines the key aspects of the ban that wholesalers and retailers need to know to ensure their products comply.

Referring safety matters to OPSS.

Meeting notes and actions from the Product Safety Reps Group meeting on 6th December 2024.

Notes and Actions taken at the OPSS Product Safety Group on December 6th 2024.

Guidance for Trading Standards: heated tobacco products

A note on compliance claims on vapes from the Vaping Expert Panel.

LA e-bike and e-scooter project printable leaflet
LA e-bike and e-scooter project online leaflet
LA e-bike and e-scooter project legislation leaflet
LA e-bike and e-scooter survey return template