Is your business ready for the No Smoking legislation?

26 June 2007 There are new regulations concerning smoking which will come into force on 1 July 2007. These regulations affect virtually all enclosed or substantially enclosed workplaces and public places and they are also likely to cover any commercial vehicles used in connection with your business. There are some exceptions to the above for hotels, nursing homes etc where they are permitted to have rooms designated for smoking. The regulations state that no one may smoke in an enclosed or substantially enclosed area and premises must display the appropriate no smoking signage.  The format of the signage is stated within the regulations. There are three offences under the regulations which are: smoking in a smokefree place failing to display the required no-smoking signs failing to prevent smoking in a smokefree place Many businesses already have smoking policies in place and therefore the effect of the new laws should be minimal. However, it is recommended that businesses check to ensure that any current signs meet the requirements.  There is no legal requirement for employers to provide a smoking area for employees or the public. To help businesses prepare for 1 July more detailed information can be found at www.smokefreeengland.co.uk or by telephoning Fenland District Council on 01945 654321. The appropriate no smoking signs can also be downloaded from this website.