29 May 2007, 07/168
Helping businesses to stub out smoking
The District Council's Environmental Health Team could soon be
knocking on your business's door. 
In preparations for the new national smokefree laws, which will
come into force from the 1 July 2007, officers have this week
started making visits to local businesses, offering help and advice
in advance of the new legislation to restrict smoking in any
enclosed or substantially enclosed work and public places. Much of
this support is given at the same time as at food safety or health
and safety inspections.
As part of these visits officers will be distributing a national
smoke free leaflet, which provides lots of information to help
ensure that everyone knows what they need to do to become
smokefree. They will also be giving businesses a number of
no-smoking signs that will need to be displayed, along with
answering any queries or worries about the new laws.
Cllr Baldock, Portfolio Holder for Environment and Health, said: "A
smokefree England will ensure a healthier environment, so that
everyone can socialise, relax, travel, shop and work, free from the
dangers of secondhand smoke."
"I really hope that local businesses make the most of these visits
from our Environmental Health Team, as our officers are here to
offer support and guidance in the run up to the changes in the law.
I would also recommend that people visit our website
www.westlancsdc.gov.uk/smokefree - which links to the national
Smokefree England website - where people will find a wealth of
information at their fingertips."
For more information and advice about the new smokefree laws or for
a copy of the free smokefree leaflet visit the Smokefree section or call 01695 57177.
Alternatively you can call the national Smokefree England helpline
on 0800 169 1697.
Related information
> Council
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> Smokefree