Nitrous Oxide and Music Festivals.

The use of nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, by teenagers and younger people has been gaining much traction in the media recently. What should be the stance of music festival organisers of this rising trend and what are the legal implications for possession and use of nitrous oxide.

Irrespective of how nitrous oxide is obtained consumption has been popular at live music concerts and festivals for some time. Nitrous oxide is usually sold in small canisters, which can be cracked open and inhaled using a balloon or other device and are easily concealed when entering a venue or festival site. What is nitrous oxide and its effects that make it a concern for venue owners and festival organisers?

What is Nitrous Oxide. 
Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) is a colourless and odourless gas that can produce feelings of euphoria and dizziness when inhaled. Unfortunately, nitrous oxide is also a commonly abused substance. The gas has traditionally been used for medical and dental procedures, but it has made a gradual progression to more widespread recreational use. 

Effects of Use. 
Use of nitrous oxide for recreational purposes has increased because it provides users with feelings of euphoria, relaxation, calmness, fits of giggles, sound distortions and hallucinations. Whilst nitrous oxide is not considered to be as dangerous as some other recreational drugs, it can still be harmful, especially if used excessively or in combination with other substances. The effects of nitrous oxide use can also include confusion, nerve damage, vitamin B12 deficiency, and other health problems. In extreme cases it can cause oxygen deprivation and lead to fainting or even death. 

Legal Position. 
The legal status of nitrous oxide use and possession varies from country to country and authorities are cracking down on recreational use. It is still legal to possess and use for legitimate medical purposes, however, the sale and distribution of nitrous oxide for recreational use is often prohibited. The United States has classified nitrous oxide as a controlled substance under the federal Controlled Substances Act. While possession of nitrous oxide is not illegal it is regulated and subject to restrictions. The UK similarly makes it legal to possess and use, but its sale and distribution for recreational purposes is illegal under the Psychoactive Substances Act 2016. If caught, users and distributors can incur fines and other penalties depending on the circumstances.

Music Festival Policies. 
Almost all major music festivals in the United Sates and the UK have strict policies about nitrous oxide and possession will result in confiscation if found. Organisers will often treat nitrous oxide as they do any other illegal narcotic substances and if necessary, will involve the police. Festival-goers are advised to check specific rules for any event they intend to visit or preferably just avoid trying to bring cannisters onto a site. Festival organisers who are unfamiliar with the trending use of nitrous oxide should seek a better understanding and consider adding it to their lists of banned substances.

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Image by sofiess from Pixabay

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