WEST Devon Borough Council has been working closely with businesses in the borough in preparation for the introduction of the new smoke free law which comes into effect on Sunday. Environmental health officers have been raising awareness of the new legislation over the last few months, giving support and guidance to help businesses comply. The new law is being introduced to protect employees and the public from the harmful effects of second hand smoke. From Sunday, it will be against the law to smoke in virtually all enclosed public places, workplaces and public and work vehicles. There will be very few exemptions from the law. Environmental health officers from the council, who are enforcing the law, say that businesses should also be aware that it is a requirement to have no smoking signage so that everyone is clear that they are in a smoke free area. Cllr Chis Jenkins, chairman of the council?s environment and community committee, said: ?The council is taking a sensible approach to the issue with the emphasis on guidance and support to help the business community. ?At the same time, it obviously allows for enforcement action to be taken if all else fails.? Further information to help businesses meet their legal obligation are available on the council?s website at http://www.westdevon.gov.uk">www.westdevon.gov.uk or contact the council?s customer service team for further information on 01822 813600.
