Glasgow incident prompts letters to fire services
The UK Vaping Industry Association (UKVIA) has written to fire authorities across the UK following the recent fire in Glasgow to support safety checks in vape retail premises.
UKVIA said the fire has been confirmed as starting in a retail outlet selling vapes among other products, with the investigation still ongoing.
The letter, issued on 11 March 2026, was sent to the National Fire Chiefs Council, Fire Standards Board and several fire and rescue services.
It said the association wants to work with fire services and authorities to help prevent a similar incident.
Some retail members have already sent updates to stores to reinforce fire and battery safety measures.
Glasgow response includes licensing proposal
UKVIA said it is working with the British government on a mandatory retail licensing scheme proposed in the Tobacco and Vapes Bill.
It said the scheme could support compliance with fire safety requirements in vape retail stores across the UK.
John Dunne, Director General UK Vaping Industry Association, said: “Our thoughts are with everyone affected by the fire in Glasgow and we commend the emergency services for their response.
“This is an isolated incident and, while the exact cause of the fire has not yet been established, even one case like this is one too many.
“While we await the findings of the full investigation, we will be proactively engaging with the fire service and relevant authorities to understand what lessons can be learned to help ensure the highest possible safety standards across vape retailers.
“We are also advising all our members to check their fire risk assessments and to get in touch with their local fire authorities to seek any further guidance.”
Glasgow site handed to council as response ends
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) has handed control of the Union Street site to Glasgow City Council, marking the end of firefighting operations and the start of recovery work.
Public safety remains the priority, with work beginning to assess the structure and establish a safe zone, while SFRS maintains a presence to support partner agencies.
The fire was first reported at 3.46pm on Sunday 8 March and at its height involved 18 appliances and specialist resources.
Close to 300 firefighters were involved over four days.
Assistant Chief Officer Jon Henderson, SFRS Director of Prevention, said: “This was an incredibly challenging and complex incident which called upon resources and expertise from across the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service.
“We are extremely proud of our staff and incredibly thankful to our partners for helping to bring this incident to a safe conclusion.
“Despite the scale and intensity of this fire, no firefighters or members of the public were hurt, and some of Glasgow’s most iconic buildings were saved from further damage.
“The impact of this incident on the Glasgow community is enormous, and we are extremely grateful for the patience and generosity shown to our partners and us at the scene throughout.”
A multi-agency investigation will take place once the site is secured and safe.