The Smoke Free Regulations
The dangers to personal health from second-hand tobacco smoke have been recognised by the requirements of the Health Act 2006 and the Smoke-free Regulations 2006 and 2007.
From 1st July 2007 smoking will not be permitted in most enclosed workplaces and public places in England. If you smoke in these places - or allow smoking to take place – you will be breaking the law and be liable to a fine.
Signs
The law also requires that every workplace and enclosed public place must display “no smoking signs” of a minimum size of A5 (approx 210mm by 150mm). The standard no smoking symbol must be displayed together with the wording:
No Smoking. It is against the law to smoke in these premises
The signs can be obtained free of charge by ringing 0800 169 169 7.
Transport
All public transport, shared company cars, taxis and private hire vehicles are also covered by the requirements of the law. i.e. smoking will not be permitted inside at any time and a no-smoking sign must be displayed.
Compliance with the law
The easiest way to comply with the law is to
- Not allow smoking on your premises
- Display the required signs
However you may wish to provide new facilities for smokers outside your premises such as a shelter or tables and chairs.
Shelters
Shelters must comply with the requirements of:
- The Smoke-free Regulations (in particular half the vertical sides must be open to the outside air)
- Planning considerations (location, design, restrictions relating to listed building etc)
- Building Regulations (structure, access, etc)
Street Furniture
If you serve food and drink and are thinking of providing tables and chairs for customers in a public area you must apply for permission from the Council’s Highways Department. If you run licensed premises you should check with the Council’s Licensing department.
For more information see the individual information sheets in this pack or contact:
Environmental Health – Tel (01274) 433928
Planning – (01274) 434605
Building Control – (01274) 433807 or (01535) 618010
Highways – (01274) 433730
Licensing – (01274) 432240
The national website www.smokefreeengland.co.uk
