Smokefree business advice

The Smokefree Tower Hamlets team is helping local businesses prepare for changes necessary under the new smoke free legislation. The team has been busy visiting small, medium and large businesses throughout the borough to advise on the new legislation.

All businesses will be required to take reasonable steps to ensure staff, customers and visitors know about the laws and 'No smoking' signs must be displayed at all public entrances. Penalties will apply to businesses that do not display signs or that allow smoking in enclosed areas and there will also be penalties for individuals that break the laws.

At work, the new legislation may require staff to make some changes to where and when they smoke. If employees choose to smoke during a rest break, they must smoke in an open space such as an open car park or open-air grounds. Employers do not have to provide a smoking shelter for employees, or provide a ‘smoking break’.

For a summary of what the new legislation means visit Smokefree England’s quick guide to the new smokefree laws

For further information about how to prepare if you are a business, see Smokefree England’s ‘What do I do’ section for businesses and employers

If you are a business based in Tower Hamlets and need further help or guidance, please contact the Smokefree Tower Hamlets Team
Tel: 020 7364 5008
Email: smokefree@towerhamlets.gov.uk

Download the Freshstart Smokefree Tower Hamlets business leaflet (PDF)
Download the Freshstart Smokefree Tower Hamlets poster (PDF)