After Chloe Rowe's injury from inhaling aerosol deodorant in 2021, a representative for the family reached out to the manufacturer of the product she used, and received a statement, later also issued to media who covered the story, that seemed to acknowledge the issue and promise some action. As it turns out, it was a version of a statement that's been doing the rounds for quite some time.

What is the responsibility of manufacturers of aerosol products when it comes to volatile substance misuse? Is it an equal burden to be carried by all players in the industry, or should the maker of the perceived product of choice, and the product liked to the most reported deaths from volatile substance misuse in Australia, be expected to lead the way?

We speak to a chemical engineer from the University of Sydney to understand the science behind aerosols and any potential for making a change to make them harder or impossible to use. Then, we attempt to reach out to the manufacturer and Australia's leading professional body of aerosol manufacturers, and the final response we receive sends our investigation in an unexpected direction.

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Fumes is an original investigative series from Swivol Media exploring the issue of volatile substance misuse. Hosted Phoebe Zukowski-Wallace. Produced by Phoebe Zukowski-Wallace and Lauren Fitzgerald, Sound Design and Mix by Rob Clarke, additional production and design from Amanda Reedy, Kendra Christiansz, and Allison Craighead. Executive Producer Scotty Allen. 

Please visit www.swivolmedia.com for more information. You can also join the “Fumes - The Truth About Inhalants” Group on Facebook (coming soon)

If you’re concerned that someone you know may be misusing inhalants, you can call the National and Other Drugs Hotline in Australia on 1800 250 015 for free and confidential advice.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.