Smoke free workplaces and smoking policy

This extends to banning smoking in work vehicles used by more than one person. No smoking signs are required to be displayed at all entrances to premises and in work vehicles.

Penalties and fines can be issued to anyone breaking Smoke-Free legislation. For further information on smoke free legislation, contact your Local Council’s Tobacco Control Officer (Environmental Health Department).

Developing a No Smoking Policy for the Workplace

Although, it is not a legal requirement for workplaces to have a smoking policy it is often recommended. A policy makes clear what the organisation expects from employees.

In developing a Smoking policy, it is important to consult with employees and their representatives to ensure it is appropriate and meets the requirements of the workplace. It is also important to keep staff informed and give them adequate notice of when the policy will be formally introduced. The policy should be available and easily accessed by employees. On introduction of the policy, a copy should be circulated to all staff and on appointment of new staff, they should be issued with a copy of the policy.

A good Smoking policy will also consider support for employees who would like to give up smoking.

With a rise in use of e-cigarettes and vaporisers you may wish to include these in your smoking policy.

Should you wish to install a shelter in a designated smoking area you will need to comply with planning requirements and building regulations. You should consult with your local council’s Tobacco Control Officer.

Smoking Rooms in Shared Accommodation

Hotels are permitted to provide designated smoking rooms, so long as a number of conditions are met:

• Smoke must be kept inside the designated smoking room.
• There should be no smoke elsewhere in the building, such as along corridors.
• Rooms should be designated and may only be changed once per year, if required for decorating, maintenance, etc.
• Smoking is not permitted in dormitories.

Support is available for Employers from Tobacco Control Officer, usually based in the Environmental Health Department of the Local Council.