Which workplaces will be covered by the legislation?

ALL premises that are wholly or substantially enclosed and used as a place of work by more than one person will be covered by the legislation. And vehicles used in conjunction with a business.

Will employers have to provide external smoking areas?
Employers will not be legally required to provide external designated smoking areas, however, any shelters that are erected must comply with planning regulations.

Can I have a smoking room or designated area?
No – smoking rooms will not be allowed, except in premises exempt from the legislation.

Which premises are exempt?
Places used as residential accommodation that are also workplaces (such as prison cells, hospices and long stay residential homes) are likely to be exempt. However, this will not mean that smoking will be allowed throughout these premises. Instead, employers will have to designate smoking rooms that meet a set of criteria.

What are the benefits of my premises becoming Smoke-free?
Benefits:

Increased on-the-job productivity - the average smoker takes 6 ten-minute 'smoke breaks' per day – that’s 5 hours of work time per week!
Reduced sickness and early retirements due to ill health.
 Reduced annual health-care costs and health insurance for smokers.
Fulfillment of health and safety regulations and reduced risk of litigation.
Reduced risk of fire damage, explosions and other accidents related to smoking Reduced insurance premiums.
Reduced maintenance and cleaning costs.

How will the legislation be enforced?
Legislation is to be enforced by Environmental Health Officers, who will be authorised to inspect your premises and issue penalties if necessary.

What are the penalties?
Penalties:
Failure to display minimum no smoking signs: Up to £1000 or a fixed penalty notice of £200.
Smoking in a non-smoking place: Up to £200 or a fixed penalty notice of £50.
Failing to prevent smoking in a smoke-free place: Up to £2500