Smoke-Free UK: Are You Ready For This?

Although many people know that smoking is bad for their health, it does not stop them from the habit. But now that a new UK legislation that bans smoking in “enclosed and substantially enclosed” public and work places, many smokers would definitely be cutting back on their daily ration.

England was the latest country to join the smoke-free caravan following the decision of Ireland and Wales earlier this year to ban smoking. These two countries are successfully reaping the rewards despite the controversies surrounding the new law, since compliance has been considerably high and the provisions under the new law became self-enforcing after some time. For individuals and businesses that fail to do so are fined up to 2,500 pounds. Businesses have been required to put up signs all over their premises in order to inform employees and visitors of the smoke-free policy.

The fears that these businesses will lose business were unfounded, as they are now receiving non-customers who were previously thwarted by the smoke-filled rooms. These businesses should consider that smokers are just 25 percent of UK’s total population and now they could enjoy the other 75 percent.

The new legislation will also have positive effects on smokers who wish to smoke but have difficulties doing so. They will have to make an effort to look for places to smoke instead of simply lighting up anywhere they want. People against the new law are worried that this would encourage more parents lighting up at home but the national government replied that they will be tackling this issue next. It seems like the new law will serve as the platform for more smoke-free legislation.

As a member of the community, you should support the smoking ban that protects people from secondhand smoke and also the environment from the bad effects of cigarette smoke. If you are an employer, you should strictly enforce the guidelines that will transform the place of your business into a smoke-free compliant area.

Aside from the policies and guideline released by the national government in support of the new legislation, you could also come up with guidelines after consulting with your employees. The active participation of your staff will help you implement changes better. Lastly, you should be able to discuss with your employees the importance of this new law as well as the penalties that could be imposed on them for non-compliance.

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