Health

Smoking Ban

On Sunday 1 July 2007, a new law came into force that means you will no longer be allowed to smoke in nearly all public spaces. Here we answer your most frequently-asked questions about the new law.

Why do we need this law?

It will make sure that all workers and members of the public are protected from the harm caused by tobacco smoke.

What is a public space?

It means offices, factories, shops, pubs, restaurants, bars, hair salons, barbers and public transport. Smoking will also be banned in work vehicles used by more than 1 person.

Can we still have smoking rooms?

Smoking rooms will not be allowed.

Do employers have to provide smoking breaks or outside smoking areas?

No. By law, employers must give staff a rest break of 20 minutes when they are at work for more than 6 hours. If staff choose to smoke during this rest period, they must smoke in an open space such as an open car park or open-air grounds.

If I own a business, what do I need to do?

You will be required by law to:

Display 'no smoking' signs
Take reasonable steps to ensure staff, customers and visitors know that your premises and vehicles are required by law to be no-smoking areas
Make sure no one smokes in no-smoking buildings or vehicles

Signs will be available from the Department of Health before the new law comes into force, and can be ordered from the Smoke Free England website.

As a business owner, what fines and penalties can I face?

From Sunday 1 July 2007, you are required to display 'no smoking' signs at entrances to your business and on company vehicles used by more than 1 person.

Businesses failing to display these signs will receive a fixed penalty notice of £200 or a fine of up to £1,000
Businesses that allow smoking in smoke-free premises could face fines of up to £2,500

Will I be fined if I am caught smoking in a public space like a restaurant?

If you are caught smoking in a no-smoking place, you face a fine of up to £200 or a penalty notice of £50.

Are there any exemptions to the ban?

Certain places where people live, which are also workplaces (such as prison cells, hospices and long-stay residential homes) will be exempt. However, this does not mean that smoking will be allowed throughout the premises.

The public areas of residential care homes and hospices will have to be no smoking - this includes sitting rooms, dining areas, reception areas, corridors and all other enclosed communal areas.

Employers must identify designated smoking rooms for residents and possibly visitors. There is no obligation for employers in exempt places to have smoking rooms.

If I need more information or help, who can I contact?

You can telephone Barking and Dagenham Direct on 020 8215 3000, for more information. For help in making your business smoke free, log onto Smoke Free England or telephone the Smoke Free England Information Line on 0800 169 1697.

If I want to give up smoking, who can I contact?

You can contact the local Stop Smoking Service, which offers counselling, or your GP can refer you. Telephone the service on 020 8532 6284 (from Monday to Friday, 9am - 5pm).

Advice and Support Helpline|

Planning advice note on smoking shelters and other features|

Useful websites

Smoke Free England|

Go Smoke Free|

The Big Quit|

Contact

Stop Smoking Service

The Clock House

East Street

Barking

IG11 8EY

Tel: 020 8532 6284

Referrals: 020 8532 6284

Fax: 020 8724 1291

Email: info@smokenomore.org.uk|