The government of the United Kingdom implemented new regulations forbidding smoking in public places in 2007. The new standards require that all enclosed and substantially enclosed workplace areas be smoke-free at all times. This is true even if people work there at different times of the day. As a result, businesses began to provide smoking shelters for staff and guests. However, the Smoke-free (Premises and Enforcement) Regulations 2006 apply to smoking shelters.
What exactly are smoking shelters, and how do they work?
Smoking shelters or structures are places where individuals can smoke beneath a roof or ceiling. It doesn’t have to be a room; it might just be an area with a cover.
Smoking shelters might have a back and sides for a more private feel. It cannot, however, have full walls on all four sides. Continue reading to find out more details.
Is it necessary for me to designate an area where my employees will find smoking shelters?
You do not have to provide a dedicated smoking area for your employees by law.
On the other hand, installing smoking shelters might be a highly advantageous move for your business. You have no clue where your employees or clients could be smoking. This might cause issues, such as worries about second-hand smoking amongst other employees.
Smoking shelters will naturally appeal to smokers. Also, no unpleasant smoke will be present in the public spaces surrounding your building. By providing a smoking shelter, all of the smoke will gather in one place. Smokers will like having their own smoking area as well. They will be able to smoke while being protected from the elements.
As a business owner, you will have the option of deciding where to locate a smoking shelter. Smells and noise, for example, can be steered away from packed entranceways.
Is a smoking shelter required to obtain planning permission?
Yes. You need planning permission for any permanent external projects. This is true whether the shelter links to a structure or stands alone. You should always check if a smoking shelter also needs Building Regulation permission.
What are the most sides that a smoking shelter can have?
To be in compliance with current legislation, smoking shelters must be exposed to the outside and not wholly enclosed or heavily shuttered. This implies that no opening or closing fittings can enclose more than 50% of the shelter.
How far away from other structures does a smoking shelter have to be?
There is no specific law when it comes to the distance between a smoking shelter and any other building or structure. However, it should always be at least 2 metres away from surrounding structures. There may be ventilation issues if it is too close to a building, and you might receive complaints if it is too close to any entranceways or windows.
Please contact us directly or your local council or authority if you require any more assistance.
Are you interested in installing smoking shelters on your premises? Have a look at the smoking shelters we offer. Or, get in touch with our friendly team today.