| Clearing the air for a Healthier Scotland |
 On 26 March 2006 the law on smoking in Scotland will change, with smoking no longer allowed in the majority of wholly or substantially enclosed public places. The law has been introduced to protect people from the harmful effects of passive smoking, which currently claims the lives of up to 1,000 lifelong non-smokers in Scotland every year and is linked to lung cancer, heart disease, respiratory conditions and strokes. The new law will have obvious implications for employers, managers and those in control of premises, including workplaces, clubs, pubs and restaurants. Vehicles used primarily for work purposes, excluding cars, are also affected. There are few exemptions to the new law and these have been granted mainly on humanitarian grounds in places which could be classed as someone’s home e.g. an adult care home. Hotels can designate one or more bedrooms where the occupants may smoke, if they wish. However, in the majority of premises previously designated ‘smoking rooms’ will no longer be allowed. If employers wish to provide outdoor smoking areas for staff or customers, then they should take legal and local planning advice to ensure that any proposals comply with the law. Detailed guidance has already been sent out to businesses and organisations by the Scottish Executive, providing information on how they should prepare for the smoking ban. The guidance pack contains information on, why the law is being introduced; places where the new law will apply, and those premises which are permitted exemptions; how to comply with the new law; no smoking signage for premises and vehicles; enforcing the new smoke-free law; and advice on developing a smoke-free workplace policy. If you require a copy of the guidance pack call 0845 300 3488, or e-mail info@clearingtheairscotland.com. Alternatively, you can access the document and signage at www.clearingtheairscotland.com, which also contains a section on frequently asked questions and case studies of businesses that have already gone smoke-free. |
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