No butts: Creating a healthier workplace
Smoking is no longer allowed anywhere where people work.
This new legislation (which came in on 1 July 2007) means that no one can smoke in any workplace including:
- restaurants
- cafes
- pubs
- shops
- clubs
- factories
- offices
- betting shops
whether they are employees, customers or visitors.
Businesses are legally obliged to ensure that this law is complied with inside their premises.
All public transport, including taxis and minicabs, must be smoke-free and any vehicle used by more than one person for work.
Many businesses already have smoking policies but it is important to understand that existing smoking rooms or areas reserved for smoking in canteens are no longer allowed.
Why the legislation?
Breathing in second-hand smoke, or "passive smoking", is harmful to people's health and workers should be protected from it.
Can employees and customers still smoke outside?
Yes, but there is no obligation on employers to allow smoking breaks for employees.
What should businesses do?
Staff should be made aware of the new law.
Those that do smoke might find that this gives them the incentive to try and give up. Greenwich Stop Smoking Service has trained advisors to support and advise people on how to give up smoking.
Greenwich Stop Smoking Service
Tel: 0800 587 5833 (Free)
Text: QUIT to 07790 909 999
Email: stopsmoking@greenwichpct.nhs.uk
Find out more about giving up smoking on our Health webpages.
Is more information available?
Yes. You can find out more information on the legislation on the Smoke Free England website.
Signage
"No smoking signs" must be displayed in all the premises and vehicles the law applies to. Full information on these signs can be viewed on the Smoke Free England website and the signs can be downloaded.
How to provide a smoking shelter
If you are planning to construct an outside shelter for smoking please first view our planning, licensing and environmental advice note to ensure that it complies with regulations, as the structure may be subject to planning permission.
Should you require further information, please telephone our Environmental Health Department on 020 8921 8173/ 8102/ 8177.