Public enjoy smoke-free environment with extension of smoking ban to six types of listed establishments

29 Jun 2009

A spokesman for the Department of Health (DH) said today (June 29) that smoking ban at six types of listed establishments (LE) will take effect on July 1 in accordance with the Smoking (Public Health) Ordinance (Cap 371).

These establishments are bars, clubs, night-clubs, bathhouses, massage establishments and mahjong-tin kau premises.

Studies have shown that second hand smoke affects the health of staff and customers at indoor public areas.

"The arrangement can further protect the public from exposure to second hand smoke," the spokesman said.

The spokesman also called for the co-operation of venue management in providing a smoke-free environment for their staff and customers.

The spokesman said venue managers of designated no-smoking areas were empowered to implement the smoking ban in the no-smoking areas under their management.

"Venue managers are authorised to require any smoker to stop smoking in the no-smoking areas. They can request those refuse to produce proof of identity and address for follow up; or ask them to leave the no-smoking area," he said.

Members of the public should be considerate and cooperate with venue managers for the smooth implementation of the legislative requirements, he said.

The spokesman said smoking ban had already been implemented in all indoor areas of workplaces, public places, restaurants, bars for all ages, karaoke lounges since January 1, 2007.

Up to May 31 this year, DH's Tobacco Control Office (TCO) had issued some 13,800 summonses to people smoking in no smoking areas.

Anyone who committed a smoking offence is subject to a maximum penalty of $5,000.

TCO has launched a series of publicity and education activities to promote smoke-free environment in QEs.

A number of workshops have been organised to facilitate them to understand the legislative requirements as well as to implement smoke-free measures.

Staff wishing to quit smoking are also provided with smoking cessation seminars.

Smoke free ambassadors of TCO have been visiting QEs to promulgate smoke-free message and disseminate leaflets, posters, stickers and implementation guidelines.

"We will continue to liaise with the operators of QEs and to ensure the legislative requirements would be observed by the parties concerned" the spokesman said.