The rise of "vaping" e-cigarettes is annoying non-smokers. A new survey shows 70 per cent of people want the devices banned on public transport, workplaces, restaurants and other places where smoking is prohibited.

Current NSW smoking restrictions do not cover e-cigarettes, which are battery-powered devices that emit vapour instead of smoke.

Health concerns: NSW smoking rules do not cover e-cigarettes. Credit:AP

Health Minister Jillian Skinner last week pledged to ban the sale of e-cigarettes and associated liquids to children. The Heart Foundation has called for the Baird Government to go further, and apply the same restrictions that apply to cigarettes.

"Any person can legally light one up in a hospital or restaurant or office," said the Heart Foundation's NSW chief executive Kerry Doyle.