Smoke free legislation
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Smoke free Barnet
England is going smokefree on Sunday 1 July 2007. The law will protect the public and people at work from the harmful effects of secondhand smoke.
If you manage or are in charge of business premises or vehicles you will have a legal responsibility to ensure they are smokefree.
Many businesses are already smoke free. If you are responsible for business premises and still allow people to smoke, consider making the change as soon as possible so your business can start to benefit from the smoke free environment and improved employee health.
To be ready for the new law when it comes into effect, you’ll need to identify smoke free areas so you can make sure that:
- You have the required no-smoking signs in place at all entrances (this applies even if your premises are already smoke free)
- Your vehicles carry no smoking signs
- Your staff, customers, members or visitors are aware that your premises and work vehicles are legally required to be smokefree
- You are ready to prevent people smoking in any smoke free place within your control.
Once the law comes into effect it will be the legal responsibility of anyone who controls or manages smokefree premises and vehicles to prevent people from smoking in them. To demonstrate that you have taken reasonable steps to meet the requirements of the new law, as well as displaying signs you may need to:
- Remove ashtrays
- Adopt a clear smokefree policy, preferably written down
- Inform staff about the law and your expectations. Employees who may have to deal with smokers on your premises may need training.
Further information
We are responsible for ensuring a smooth introduction for the legislation in the borough. Our focus will initially be on providing businesses with all the support and advice they need to comply with the law.
We will be running free seminars to provide detailed information on how to ensure your business complies with the new law. These will be held in May and June.
For advice on the new law, or to book your seminar place:
- Tel: 020 8359 7995 or,
- Email: laura.centanni@barnet.gov.uk
You can register to receive an information pack, and find further information on the law, at:
- www.smokefreeengland.co.uk or,
- Tel: 0800 169 1697
Email this pageLast modified by: Mike Godleman on 22/05/2007