Do you think that we should take further action to make sure that all employers introduce smoking policies designed to ensure their employees health and welfare at work?
Yes. Approximately one in five workplaces does not have an effective policy to safeguard employees’ health from passive smoking, and more than 3 million people are exposed to second-hand smoke at work. Given the well-established health risks of passive smoking, employers have a duty to act to protect their workers’ health. We agree that further action is needed to ensure that employers comply with their duty in this respect. 2. Should we issue an Approved Code of Practice (ACoP) on passive smoking? Yes. Existing legislation under the Health and Safety Act 1974 provides the legal framework required; however, clear guidelines on compliance are needed. Given the nature of the health risks involved, voluntary guidance is inappropriate, as it does not carry sufficient weight. An Advisory Code of Practise setting out clear and authoritative guidance on compliance with standards of worker protection would be welcome. However, the success of any such code will depend to a large extent on the c
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