It has been over a decade that smoking in workplaces, public enclosed places and work vehicles have been banned. 1 July 2007 is the fateful day when the smoking ban came into force due to the Health Act 2006. Since then, no smoking signs in the UK have become commonplace. They are firm reminders to one and all that smoking is prohibited by law.
Today, we shall look into the laws only at work and determine the dangers of second-hand smoke. If you read ahead, you can also draw insights about where to place no-smoking signs in the workplace. Without further ado, let’s begin.
Laws on Smoking at Workplaces
The UK smoking law clearly mentions the following:
- A hefty fine of up to £2,500 will be imposed on businesses that fail to prohibit employees from smoking.
- A substantial sum of almost £1,000 will be levied on businesses for not appropriately displaying No Smoking signs in the workplace.
- Managers shall be held responsible for the occurrence of smoke-related incidents in workplaces.
- Those breaking the ban can be fined up to £200. It can be an individual or a worker.
- Every workplace must display No Smoking signs on the premise and within work-related vehicles.
- Employers must spread awareness about the smoking limits to staff, visitors and customers.
- Smoking is forbidden in company vehicles when more than one person is occupying the space.
All the above policies were framed under the Smoke-Free Legislation to safeguard non-smokers from the perils of passive smoking.
Health Hazards of Second-Hand Smoking
Passive smoking is more hazardous than direct smoking. The risk of lung cancer in passive smokers shoots up by 16-19%. Not only is the long-term health of employees at risk, but also their finances. Fortunately, many people are in safe hands today, ever since smoking got banned in workplaces, public enclosed places and shared vehicles. Part of the success can also be attributed to putting up no-smoking notices for staff.
Other respiratory-related illnesses are more prevalent in second-hand smokers, which has declined by 27% post-ban. The statistic covered bar workers and was recorded by the Department of Health back in 2011.
The dangers of second-hand smoke are not just limited to respiratory illnesses but also attract hefty fines and loss of business licences. Thankfully, the situation is within control following the ban and ever since employers started investing in No Smoking signs in the workplace.
Where to Set up No Smoking Signs in the Workplace?
The law on smoking at work clearly mentions the display of ‘no smoking’ signs in offices. It also insists businesses ensure that no one smokes in enclosed premises or vehicles in the presence of a co-passenger. However, the places to set them up are entirely up to the business.
If you are an employer seeking tips on where to install no-smoking notices for your staff, we have advice for you:
- Install the sign where it is visible and not covered by doors, objects or shelves
- Set up the sign in a place where there is ample lighting
- Incorporate artificial lighting if necessary
- Assemble the sign only on immovable objects. Try not to put it up even adjacent to moving stuff like drawers, doors or windows. These objects may obscure the sign.
Wrapping Up:
One of the greatest threats to smoking in workplaces is second-hand smoke. It is highly injurious to non-smokers. Fortunately, No Smoking signs in the UK have taken care of the matter! Now, it is the responsibility of employers to impose rules and regulations within office premises or pay hefty fines for violations of the law. Businesses can have them installed anywhere, be it in enclosed work premises or shared vehicles. Irrespective of the spot, make sure they are visible to all.
You can now order no-smoking notices for your staff online from 3 Signs in the UK. Purchasing in bulk can help you earn discounts and save you from paying for fines through the nose.
