Smoking, both active and passive, is harmful to our health. Cigarette smoking has an impact not only on the person who is smoking, but also on those who are around them.
Taking this into account, smoking has been prohibited in enclosed public spaces and workplaces in Wales, England, and Northern Ireland since 2007, and in Scotland since 2006.
In England, the Department of Health is responsible for the smoke free legislation, whereas in Wales, the Welsh Assembly Government is in charge, and in Scotland, the Scottish Government is in charge.
As per the law, following are the major points
It is banned to smoke in public space and workplace.
Workplace smoking rooms and places are no longer authorized under current regulation. All smokers are required to take regular breaks elsewhere.
The smoking prohibition extends to vehicles that provide services to the public and/or are being used for business.
Any establishments' owners/managers must take measures to make sure that all employees and clients are notified of the restriction and that the ban is enforced.
Across all smoke-free establishments and vehicles, proper no smoking banners should be prominently displayed.
Smokers who are seeking for a suitable smoking location should verify the no smoking signs posted throughout the premises to identify if areas are prohibited, or question a member of staff.
Smoke-free legislation has shown to be highly popular and successful, even among people who smoke. According to a YouGov poll conducted by ASH in 2014, 82% of people in the United Kingdom favor smoke-free legislation. 54 % of smokers are included in this group. The laws were opposed by just 8% of adults.
This legislation not only transformed people's smoking habits and attitudes, but it also provided significant health benefits.
In England, there was a 2.4% drop in hospitalizations for heart attacks in the year after the implementation of smoke free regulations. Hospital admissions have also decreased by 12,000 saving £8.4 million for the NHS in the first year. Moreover, there was also a decrease in the hospitalization for asthma patients in the year after the adoption of the smoke free regulations in the UK.
After the legislation, people are less likely to expose themselves and others. According to YouGov poll 2014, it was found that 86% of the people said they did not allow their friends and family members to smoke anywhere in the house.
Despite the fact that the smoking-free rule has had undeniable health advantages, several individuals are nevertheless exposed to secondhand smoke, especially in the house and in private automobiles. Government should start aiming at reducing exposure to secondhand cigarette smoke.