From 1 July 2007, as a result of provisions in the Health Act 2006, enclosed public places and workplaces have to be smoke free. This date applies to England only. Wales and Scotland are already smoke free. Wales went smoke free from 2 April this year, whilst Scotland has already passed its first anniversary of the introduction of the law which became effective from 26 March 2006.  The date for the introduction of the law in Northern Ireland is 30 April 2007.

The introduction of the ban in Scotland has been heralded a success by Health Minister Andy Kerr who said:

“Although it is too early to know exactly what the health and economic impact of the ban has been, we are already beginning to reap the health benefits.

The ban is working extremely well. More people have come forward to smoking cessation services. We are continuing to be creative in how we support smokers. We are not out to get them, we are out to help them.”

As noted by the Health Minister, the economic impact on businesses will take some time to be established.

The Act obliges employers to prohibit and take steps to prevent smoking on their premises. Clearly visible ‘No Smoking’ signs must be displayed at the entrance to premises that are ‘enclosed’ or ‘substantially enclosed’ (these terms are defined in the regulations). 
 
Smoking rooms will no longer be allowed as complete smoking bans must be imposed. However, you can decide to provide a smoking area outside but still on your premises, providing such an area is not ‘substantially enclosed’. All company vehicles used by more than one person are covered by the legislation and must display an appropriate ‘No Smoking’ sign.

The Smokefree England website contains lots of useful information to enable businesses to get ready for the change. For those parts of the UK which are already smoke free it enables businesses to ensure that they are complying with the law.

Internet Link: Smokefree England advice and BBC Scotland article