Metro Vancouver Weighs Federal Ban on Single-Use Nitrous Oxide Cylinders Following Plant Explosions
Metro Vancouver is deliberating whether to request the federal government to impose a ban on single-use nitrous oxide cylinders, commonly known as whippets or laughing gas. This consideration comes after these cylinders have caused multiple explosions at the region's waste-to-energy facility in Burnaby, raising significant safety and environmental concerns.
Safety and Environmental Risks Highlighted
Inappropriate disposal of large-volume, single-use nitrous oxide cylinders poses serious safety hazards, drives up operational costs, and contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, which exacerbate human-caused climate change. The small canisters, often used as whipped cream chargers, are also illicitly employed for recreational purposes, leading to potential health issues such as neurotoxic effects, psychosis, or severe frostbite.
Widespread Availability in Vape Shops
According to a staff report presented to Metro Vancouver's zero waste committee, at least 100 vape and smoke shops across the region are selling single-use valved nitrous oxide cylinders. These products differ from pharmaceutical versions, which combine nitrous oxide with oxygen for safe medical applications like pain management during dental procedures or labor, as noted by medical experts.
Proposed Actions and Recommendations
Staff have recommended that Metro Vancouver's board chair and zero waste committee chair write to the federal government, urging a ban on the import and sale of large single-use valved nitrous oxide cylinders. The report, set for a committee vote on Thursday, also suggests collaborating with local health authorities, the Retail Council of Canada, and the Federation of Canadian Municipalities to support this initiative.
Metro Vancouver previously contacted Health Canada in December to confirm the legality of selling these canisters but received no response. Currently, about 700 cylinders per month are properly disposed of at recycling and waste centers, while others are incorrectly dumped in garbage, increasing explosion risks for workers.
Legitimate Uses and Industry Protocols
Nitrous oxide has legitimate applications in medical settings for pain relief, industrial processes, and food preparation, such as whipping cream. For commercial and medical purposes, it is typically supplied in reusable cylinders that are leased or sold and refilled by specialized compressed gas companies, which adhere to strict safety protocols to ensure proper use.
Metro Vancouver is urging residents to take nitrous oxide cylinders to recycling depots instead of discarding them in trash bins, as exploding cans can endanger waste management personnel. This move aims to mitigate risks and promote responsible disposal practices in the community.
