Are you ready?

From 1^st July 2007, most enclosed workplaces and public places in England will be smoke free. There is an obvious impact on pubs, clubs and restaurants - but have you thought about your own business?

When the new law (contained in the Health Act 2006 and various sets of Regulations) comes into force, smoking will be banned:

• In any premises that are open to the public,;
• In any premises that are used as a place of work by more than person, and
• In any vehicle used by members of the public or for work by more than one person.

There will be some exemptions, but the majority of public and working areas, canteens, smoking rooms, rest rooms etc. will be included.  Employers may consider introducing a smoking policy, or amending an existing one.  They may also think about building “smoking shelters” – but it is important to get advice first.  Outdoor shelters can’t be enclosed; they have to meet the Regulations, and may need permission under planning law, or licensing law (if applicable).  

People who manage smoke-free premises or vehicles will have to

• put ‘no smoking’ signs at public entrances to buildings, and in vehicles.  Details of the signs will be in the Regulations – the latest information regarding the signs are available via the dedicated website www.smokefree.co.uk
• stop people smoking: although it will be an offence to smoke in a smoke-free place, it will also be the duty of people concerned with the management of smoke-free premises to stop smoking.

For further information and advice (including building smoking shelters) please contact Customer Services:

Get In Touch - Contact Customer Services

Additional sources of information:

Local free advice and support for those who wish to quit smoking is available from the Worcestershire Smoking Advice Service on 01905 760222.

Other useful sites: