BMA Calls for Action on Passive Smoking at Work

The British Medical Association (BMA) has re-ignited the debate on workplace smoking, criticising the Government for a lack of action to protect passive smokers at work and in public places.

A new report from the BMA tries to quantify the risk, claiming that there are over 20m people in the UK who are vulnerable to health risks from passive smoking, plus children and old people, who are particularly vulnerable.

The report is supported by Action on Smoking and Health (ASH), which commented to the BBC: "Our aim, and theirs, for many years has been for an end to smoking in workplaces and public places. If they move that on by strength of argument and by the power of their position as doctors, then they will have done smokers, non-smokers and the NHS a great service."

The Workplacelaw Network has followed the issue of workplace smoking closely over recent years. The HSC did draft a Code of Practice, but then scrapped the idea in favour of more general guidance. Read the Network Guide to Smoking at Work for more information.
This document is for general guidance and research purposes only, and does not purport to give professional advice. Please check the date at the top of the article; the Workplace Law Network retains historic articles for general research.