Firms Urged to Comply With Law

Jun 30, 04:15 PM

Current Headlines: BUSINESSES were today urged to ensure they comply with new laws when the ban on smoking in public places comes into force at dawn tomorrow.

The ban, which will outlaw smoking in all enclosed work places, was today welcomed by Steve Savage, chairman of the Midland branch of the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH).

"I'm delighted that workers in the West Midlands will now be protected from tobacco smoke," he said.

He urged businesses left baffled by the new legislation to download a free copy of the IOSH's guide entitled A Breath of Fresh Air - Introducing a Smoke-Free Policy at Work, from www.iosh.co.uk/ techguide.

SMOKING BAN FACT FILE

When will the ban start?

6am tomorrow

Where will smoking be banned?

In all enclosed public and work places, included buses and trains, railway stations, museums, art galleries, pubs, night clubs, restaurants, places of work and vehicles used for work.

Are there any exceptions?

Yes. Hotels, residential care homes and prisons will be permitted to have designated rooms where smoking is allowed.

What sort of smoking will the new law cover?

Anything that is smoked, included manufactured and hand-rolled cigarettes, pipes, cigars, herbal cigarettes and water pipes, including shisha, hookah and hubble-bubble pipes.

What support is available for people deciding to stop smoking?

The NHS provides a range of services, for more information call the NHS Smoking Helpline on 0800 169 0169.

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