One in six firms failing smoke-free law

The lack of the notices a year after they became required by law is being seen by Arun District Council environmental health officers as they make their routine inspections.

They are advising the firms' owners about their responsibilities to put up the signs.

Almost 1,200 premises and vehicles have been inspected by the council in the past 12 months.

Only 18 of them failed to comply with the prohibition on smoking inside.

This shows that the law has proved largely self-enforcing with no prosecutions being brought by the council.

It has also not served any fixed penalty notices for smoking-related breaches.

Just 54 complaints have been received by the council from the public since the smokefree law took effect last July 1.

Roger Wood, Arun's deputy head of environmental health, said: "We have worked hard over the past 18 months to educate people about the law change and, as a result, have seen a marked change in people's behaviour.

"We continue to work with local businesses to ensure that they are properly advertising the smokefree laws and to offer help and advice wherever needed.

"Although such a high percentage of premises are compliant with the no-smoking law, around 16 per cent of premises still are not displaying the correct signage."

The introduction of the legislation was the biggest public health change for 50 years.

Cllr Robin Brown, in charge of Arun's housing and community care policies, said: "To try and ensure the smooth introduction of the ban we have worked closely with local businesses and workplaces to ensure they were prepared for the new laws.

"This appears to have paid off and we are extremely pleased with the way the district is complying with the ban.

"The success of the new legislation is down to the efforts of local businesses who have worked hard to ensure that they comply with the new law.

"The majority of smokers have also taken the new rules in their stride, and they deserve thanks for their co-operation.

"But by far the most positive aspect of the smoking ban is the effect it is having on our health.

"Air quality in pubs and bars has gone from average 'unhealthy' levels to smokefree levels that are comparable to outdoor air.

"This is particularly good news for bar workers, who have seen a vast improvement in the indoor air quality of their working environment."

He said smokers were also benefiting from the ban with evidence from the local NHS of a 20 per cent increase in the number of people who have mamaged to quit the potentially deadly habit.

What do you think? Click here to send a letter or leave a comment below.

Click here to go back to Chichester news

Click here to go back to Bognor Regis news

Click here to go back to Midhurst and Petworth news

To tell us where in the world you are reading this story click on the link below to add yourself to our readers' map.

MAP