In recent weeks, the recreational use of nitrous oxide has been a case of concern, with extensive coverage of the problem across the UK media. As many in the compressed gases sector are aware, the recreational use of nitrous oxide has always been dangerous and has caused many deaths.
The lockdown earlier this year saw a rise in illegal raves, and in turn, resulted in an increase of small, silver bullet-like objects being scattered across our roads and parks. These little cartridges had been full of nitrous oxide, also known as ‘laughing gas’.
The abuse of nitrous oxide is a topic BCGA has worked on previously, as gasworld readers will be all too well awarem including our involvement in the drafting of the Psychoactive Substances Act.
According to the Office for National Statistic (ONS), 12% of substance-related deaths mention nitrogen or nitrous oxide on the death certificate, which is a shocking figure. It is the second most commonly used substance among 16- 24 year-olds in England, with half a million having used it in 2019. It’s a problem which needs to be addressed. Our solution to this is simple – we are calling on the UK Government to implement a straightforward ban on consumer sales of nitrous oxide.
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