Smoking Policy

Smoking Policy

Legislation


Smoke-free legislation was introduced in England in 2007, banning smoking in nearly all enclosed workplaces and public spaces, following similar bans in Scotland and Wales. Local authorities are responsible for enforcing the legislation.


Smoke-free Legislation


On premises permitted exemptions under the smoke-free law, Health and Safety Legislation will continue to require employers to reduce the risk to the health and safety of their employees from second-hand smoking to as low a level as is reasonably practicable, and to encourage employers to adopt smoking policies in the workplace which give precedence to the wishes of non-smokers not to be exposed to second-hand smoke.


  • Employers should have a specific policy on smoking in the workplace.
  • Smoking policy should give priority to the needs of non-smokers who do not wish to breathe tobacco smoke.
  • Employers should consult their employees and their representatives on the appropriate smoking policy to suit their particular workplace.