• Solvent abuse is inhaling (sniffing) the fumes of volatile substances like cigarette lighter refills, solvent based glues and aerosols
• In 2001 there were 63 deaths due to solvent abuse, 15 of these deaths were under 18s and by deliberate inhalation of butane cigarette lighter gas. About 20% of 15 and 16 year olds say they have tried it.

• Trading Standards departments frequently run test-purchase campaigns with on-the-spot and retailer fines becoming prevalent. A due diligence exercise using our "under-age" purchasers demonstrates an awareness of the problem and willingness to take action to evaluate training and impementation of retailer policy on the shop floor.

• Transaction or attempted purchase may be videoed for record
• Notation made of Point of Sale material and whether it is in accordance with the retailers policy
• Purchase or non-purchase recorded with as much information as has been noted including whether staff display POS material, how transaction was made and conducted