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We’re not here to preach. The dangers of smoking have long been known, with the first No Tobacco Day being observed by member states of the World Health Organisation (WHO) in 1987. However, there’s still an apparent need to raise awareness, as smoking remains the number one cause of premature and preventable deaths across the world.
With this year’s No Tobacco Day falling on the 31st of May, let’s take a look at the appropriate no-smoking signage your business needs and where to place them.
UK No Smoking Laws
Aiming to reduce the number of smoking-related deaths, the UK government imposed a ban on smoking in the majority of enclosed workplaces and public spaces in 2007. This also applied to smoking in work vehicles where there would otherwise be a risk of inhaling second-hand smoke.
The UK government specified the need for businesses to display ‘no smoking’ signs in all workplaces and vehicles, with Welsh/English smoking signs having to be displayed in Wales.
Any businesses found not to have displayed appropriate ‘no smoking’ signs would be liable to pay fines of up to £1,000. And each person found to have ignored the smoking ban would face charges of up to £200.
The ‘No Smoking’ Range
Featuring the image of a smoking cigarette in an enclosed, striped red circle, the meaning of the no smoking sign is clear. Available as standard signs, barrier tape, and labels, these symbols should be displayed in workspaces and public venues as a warning to those who might otherwise be tempted to light up. Most of these signs and labels also feature easily understandable wording to remind people of the ban.
Besides the standard ‘no smoking’ signs, Label Source also supplies signs to indicate the ban on the lighting of naked flames. This includes the lighting of matches, candles, and other light sources where there is a risk of ignition. They should be clearly displayed in areas used for the storage of petroleum and potentially explosive substances.
Other safety signs indicate bans of:
All of the ‘no smoking’ signage in the Label Source range has been produced in compliance with relevant legislation, such as The Smoke-Free (Premises and Enforcement) Regulations 2006 and ISO EN 7010 and Safety Signs and Signals Regulations 1996.
Read more: What Signs Do You Need for a Smoking Area?
Fitting ‘No Smoking’ Signs
While the ‘no smoking’ signs are designed for maximum visibility, they should be put up in the right places based on relevant specifications. As an example, the English Smoke-free (Signs) Regulations of 2007 specify the need to place ‘no smoking in this area’ signage in the entranceway to any enclosed building.
Such signage should feature the words 'No smoking. It is against the law to smoke in these premises.' However, the wording can be slightly adapted, as with the warning that 'It is against the law to smoke in this restaurant.’
‘No smoking’ signage must also meet these specifications:
- Being equal or greater than the size of an A5 piece of paper (21cm x 14.8cm)
- Featuring the internationally-recognised ‘no smoking’ symbol in the barred red circle
Taking Action on World No Tobacco Day
Business and premises owners can show that they are taking their legal responsibilities seriously by installing ‘no smoking’ signs in easily visible areas. This action can also be taken in support of the WHO’s mission of preventing the tobacco industry’s targeting of young people with products that are harmful to their health.
With affordable pricing and super-fast delivery, there’s every reason to buy ‘no smoking’ signs from Label Source.
