Section 6 of the Health Act 2006 sets out a duty for any person who occupies or is concerned in the management of smokefree premises to make sure that no-smoking signs complying with the requirements of the new law are displayed. The new law will require virtually all enclosed workplaces and public places to be smokefree, including places of worship or listed buildings.
Through the Smokefree England communications campaign, the Department has made guidance available on the new legislation. The guidance makes specific reference to the display of no-smoking signs in heritage buildings within the frequently asked questions section. Guidance has been posted to employing businesses across England, and is also available from the Smokefree England information line on freephone 0800 169 169 7 or to download on the Smokefree England website at:
www.smokefreeengland.co.uk
Local councils can also provide advice and support on the new law.
Departmental officials have met representatives from the Church of England and the Churches Main Committee regarding smokefree legislation. Meetings have also been offered to other faith groups. A Smokefree England fact sheet on smokefree legislation and places of worship has also been produced.
The Smokefree (Signs) Regulations 2007 set out requirements for the display of no-smoking signs in smokefree premises and vehicles. These regulations have been drafted in a way to afford maximum flexibility within the requirements in the Health Act 2006 for the display of no-smoking signs.
No-smoking signs may be displayed in a way that fits the decor of premises, as long as the minimum requirements set out in the regulations are met. A sign will need to be displayed in a prominent position at each entrance to smokefree premises. However, it need not be permanently mounted on the building because, for example, the display of a sign on a moveable stand at each entrance would satisfy the legal requirement.
To support the implementation of smokefree legislation, the Department is making no-smoking signs that meet the legislative requirements freely available to businesses and organisations.