How Will The Smoking Ban Affect You?

Following our neighbours in Scotland, Wales and Ireland, the 1st July 2007 will bring into force a new law for England. Virtually all enclosed public places and workplaces in England will become 'smoke-free'. This means that it will be against the law to smoke in enclosed spaces such as pubs, bars and nightclubs, cafes and restaurants, offices and shopping centres.

In the workplace, smoking inside buildings will become a thing of the past, and indoor smoking rooms will no longer be allowed (which I think even smokers will be relieved about as you needn't even smoke yourself in these rooms- just enter and inhale). Public transport and work vehicles used by more than one person will also be affected by the new law.

No-smoking signs will have to be clearly displayed in all smoke-free areas and vehicles. This is paramount for the facilities management of buildings as not only can the smoker be fined, but the building manager too, for not providing clear stipulations as to where you can and cannot smoke.

Anyone found to be smoking in a designated smoke-free place could face a fine of up to £200, whilst anyone in charge of smoke-free premises or vehicles could potentially face fines for two separate offences:

Failing to prevent smoking in a smoke free place.
Failing to display no-smoking signs.

So it makes sense to prepare in advance. And of course this gives smokers the opportune excuse to quit smoking.

The new law is intended to protect non-smokers, as passive smoking is known to be contributing to cancer in humans. Secondhand smoke is now a recognised carcinogen and can cause particular harm to the health of children, as well as aiding the cause of respiratory disease.For more information, or details on how to kick the habit, visit www.gosmokefree.co.uk.