New smoke-free legislation is coming into force in Wales, Northern Ireland and England from April. The aim of the law is to protect workers and the general public from the harmful effects of second-hand smoke.
The new legislation covers all workplaces, including health care and educational establishments. It will also apply to factories, offices, restaurants, cinemas, leisure centres and shopping centres. Work vehicles and public transport vehicles will also be covered by the new legislation.
Q: How will the ban affect my business premises?
A: All workplaces will be smoke-free. This means you, your staff, customers and visitors will not be allowed to smoke in the enclosed areas of your business.
Q: Will I not be allowed designated areas for smoking such as a smoking room?
A: No. 100% of all eligible buildings will have to be smoke-free.
Q: What will I need to do to comply with the smoke-free law?
A: You will need to take all “reasonable steps” to ensure no one smokes anywhere on the premises.
Q: How can I do this?
A: By law you will be required to display no smoking signs.
Q: What penalties are proposed for those who break the law?
· Up to £1,000 for failing to display no-smoking signs in smoke-free premises
· £50 for the smoker
· Up to £2,500 for the business owner
Q: So the onus is on the business owner?
A: Yes! It’s the sole responsibility of the business owner to ensure their premises are 100% smoke-free.
Q: Who will enforce the law?
A: Authorised offices of local authorities who have powers to enter premises to establish that the smoke-free legislation is being enacted in accordance with the law.
Related Links
Cigarette Bins - Click here
Fire Control/Detection and Deterrent - Click here
