'Get prepared' for NI smoking ban

Smoking will be banned in public places from 30 April

Councils in NI have issued guidelines to businesses ahead of the smoking ban coming into force on 30 April.

Local authorities will enforce the new law which prohibits smoking in all workplaces, most enclosed public spaces and public transport.

Businesses will have to ensure no-one smokes in their premises and must display no-smoking signs.

Roisin McDaid of the Smoke-Free Environments Team said businesses had to be prepared to comply with the law.

"Although it is just over one week to go to smoke-free legislation, it is not too late for businesses to make contact with their local district council should they need last minute advice or guidance," she said.

Councils are urging businesses to advise staff and customers of the areas and vehicles which will be smoke-free.

They also advise:

Ensure you have the correct signage displayed at all your public entrances of smoke-free premises and vehicles (more signage can be downloaded from www.spacetobreathe.org.uk)

Make sure you have provided facilities for disposing of cigarette ends in your smoking areas/shelters

Have procedures in place to deal with someone lighting up

Before you open for business on 30 April, take ashtrays off tables and away from smoke-free areas.

Smoke-Free legislation is intended to protect public health by reducing exposure to second-hand smoke in enclosed workplaces and public places.

It is coming into force following a major public consultation exercise by the Department of Health between December 2004 and March 2005.

Businesses can contact their local district council's environmental health department to receive more information.