On 1 July 2007 it
became illegal to smoke in virtually all enclosed public
places and workplaces in England, and local
businesses are expected to comply with the new law.
The Government introduced this law with the aim that there will
be a healthier environment where everyone can socialise, relax,
travel, shop and work free from any second-hand smoke.
Employers, managers and those in charge of smokefree premises
and vehicles have to:
- display no smoking signs in smokefree premises (the necessary
signs are available free from the Government before the end of
August);
- take reasonable steps to ensure that staff, customers and
visitors are aware that premises and vehicles are legally required
to be smokefree;
- ensure that no one smokes in smokefree premises or
vehicles.
Only a few specific types of premises are exempt from the
ban but this does not include pubs, private members’ clubs,
restaurants or offices. A system of fines has been introduced for
people breaking the law and officers from the Council’s Food and
Safety team are enforcing the ban.
What if I see someone breaking the law?
If you believe someone is breaking the law by smoking in
smokefree premises or a smokefree vehicle, we suggest you let a
member of staff know as soon as possible so the incident can be
dealt with quickly.
For premises within the Suffolk Coastal area, members of the
public can call 01394 444501 or email
smokefree@suffolkcoastal.gov.uk.
Alternatively, you can call the national Smokefree Compliance Line
free on 0800 587 166 7 to report any premises,
including those outside the Suffolk Coastal area. Your call will be
answered by a call centre operator, who will then forward the
information to the relevant local council to follow-up as
appropriate.
Guidance on the smokefree regulations
Guidance on the regulations and downloadable signage is
available from www.smokefreeengland.co.uk.
Anyone wanting advice from the Council can contact the Food and
Safety team on 01394 444501 or email
smokefree@suffolkcoastal.gov.uk.
Other sources of advice and information
Information and services to help people stop smoking are
available from:
If you are in charge of smokefree premises and intend to provide
a smoking shelter for your employees or customers you may need
planning permission. Please contact the Council's Planning Helpdesk
on 01394 444403 / 444423 /
444428 or email
d.c.admin@suffolkcoastal.gov.uk.
For advice on dealing with litter and waste disposal contact
Suffolk Coastal Services Ltd on 01394 444000 or
email
scsltd@suffolkcoastal.gov.uk.