VSU
Harm reduction
Harm reduction aims to reduce the risks, negative effects and adverse health consequences of volatile substance use (VSU) not only for those who use, but also to minimise the harmful impact on their family and community. It therefore does not seek abstinence or even a reduction in use - it requires an acceptance that it may not be possible to completely eradicate all VSU as there will always be those who are either unwilling, or unable, to stop.
Such an approach is often seen by many as contentious, particularly as it pertains to very young people who, it could be argued, may not necessarily have the capacity or ability to minimise harms and therefore it is the role of adults, or society more broadly, to intervene.
There are ways to reduce the potential harmful impacts, improve safety and encourage less risky behaviours associated with VSU when it does occur. However, due to the inherent dangers of VSU and the risk of potentially fatal consequences, there is no safe way to use volatile substances. Where possible, a goal of abstinence is the only way to reduce harm from VSU.
Reducing harm
Reducing harm for VSU involves focusing on:
- the substance
- the method of use
- the environment
For more detailed information about the harms associated with VSU, see the Harms page of this website.
Harms related specifically to a substance include the risk of 'Sudden Sniffing Death' from butane and other aerosol products. Finding ways to discourage the use of these higher-risk products to those who use volatile substances, in conjunction with a dedicated effort to reduce access, are some of the strategies that can reduce the potential for harm.
Providing information regarding the use of alternative, less harmful volatile substances to those who already use volatile substances, can be uncomfortable for some stakeholders. However, for stakeholders whose role is the provision of harm reduction information i.e.: drug and alcohol workers, suggesting the person substitute the use of butane for any other volatile substance would be preferable.
For more information about ways to reduce substance-specific harms, see the Supply reduction pages of this website.
Reducing harm associated with method of use also requires providing information to those who use volatile substances, finding out more about how they use and suggesting safer practices for them to adopt. This may include advice about inhaling through a cloth, not inhaling directly into the mouth, avoiding the use of plastic bags or lying down while inhaling.
Reducing the harm associated with the environment in which VSU takes place requires raising awareness of possible dangers and suggesting or providing safer options.
For example, is the VSU occurring in an abandoned house, on rooftops, out in the bush or other dangerous locations where no one is available to assist? Ascertain if the person using understands the flammable nature of most volatile substances or is aware of the risks of using in small, enclosed spaces. Unlike with adults, it cannot be assumed that young children, in particular, will understand flammability and causes of suffocation. Encourage them to only use volatile substances when accompanied, preferably with someone who is not intoxicated, or within sight of others.
You can work with other stakeholders to secure abandoned houses and remove access to other dangerous locations where people using volatile substances may congregate, or increase patrols in locations known to be areas they frequent. Increased lighting is another option to reduce dangers of accidental harm.
Other important harm reduction messages are outlined on the Harms page of this website and importantly include:
- not mixing with other drugs
- not chasing or surprising anyone who has been using volatile substances
- knowing when and who to call for help.
Page last updated18 August 2025