The new law that came into force on 1 July 2007 means that virtually all enclosed public places and workplaces in Bromley and, in fact, the whole of England are now smokefree.
Details
It is now against the law to smoke in virtually all 'enclosed' and 'substantially enclosed' public places and work places. This includes both permanent structures and temporary ones such as tents and marquees. This also means that indoor smoking rooms in public places and work places are no longer allowed. For further information regarding what constitutes 'enclosed' and 'substantially enclosed' please visit Smokefree England.
Public transport and work vehicles used by more than one person should also now be smokefree.
From 1 July all businesses should display the legally required signs at entrances to their premises. In addition, company vehicles used by more than one person will be required to have no smoking signs. The no smoking signs can be downloaded here, or they can be ordered from Smokefree England.
While most people will comply with the new legislation, those who don't may be liable to a fine or prosecution for the following offences:
- smoking in a smokefree place or vehicle
- failing to display a no smoking sign
- allowing smoking in a smokefree place or vehicle
If you have a complaint about an individual smoking in a smokefree area or a business allowing smoking on the premises, please contact us.
We will be distributing pocket ashtrays 'stubbies' where appropriate and giving advice on smoking responsibly. However, where smoking is permitted and littering becomes a problem, fixed penalty notices may be issued.
The law for selling tobacco is also changing on 1st October 2007 - sales of tobacco will be restricted to persons over 18 years of age. Further information about underage sales .
A smokefree England will protect everyone from the harmful effects of second hand smoke in enclosed public places and workplaces. The evidence against second hand smoke is clear. It causes lung cancer, heart disease and other illnesses, and triggers asthma attacks.
The good news is that it's estimated that smokefree places will save thousands of lives over the next decade. Smokefree will help the 7 out of 10 smokers who want to quit, too. If you want to stop smoking, support is available from Bromley Primary Care Trust.
Further information is available from Smokefree England.
Contacts
Telephone: 020 8313 4830
E-mail: ehts.customer@bromley.gov.uk
Address: Civic Centre, Stockwell Close, Bromley, BR1 3UH.
Bromley PCT Stop Smoking Service: 0800 587 8821