In 2007, the government passed new regulations prohibiting smoking in public places across the United Kingdom. According to the new rules, all enclosed and substantially enclosed sections of workplaces must be smoke-free at all times. Even if individuals work there at various times of the day, this remains the case.
As a result, companies began to construct smoking shelters for employees and visitors. The Smoke-free (Premises and Enforcement) Regulations 2006, however, apply to smoking shelters.
What is a smoking shelter, and how does it work?
A smoking shelter or structure is a space under a roof or ceiling where people may smoke. It doesn’t have to be a room; it may just be a space with a canopy.
Smoking shelters can have back and sides for a more enclosed effect. It cannot, however, be wholly enclosed. More information about this may be found further down.
Is it essential for me to create a designated smoking area?
You are not required by law to offer your employees a designated smoking area.
On the other hand, installing a smoking shelter might be a very beneficial decision for your business. You have no idea where your staff or clients could be smoking. This might lead to problems, such as concerns about second-hand smoking.
For smokers, smoking shelters will be a natural appeal. As a result, there will be no unpleasant smoke in the public areas surrounding your establishment. By offering a smoking shelter, all of the smoke will be collected in one location. Smokers will appreciate having a separate smoking space as well. They will be able to continue to smoke while being sheltered from the weather.
You will be able to choose where you wish to put a smoking shelter as a company owner. For example, smells and noise can be directed away from crowded entranceways.
Is a smoking shelter subject to planning permission?
Yes. All permanent exterior constructions must get planning permission. If the shelter is attached to a building or stands alone, this will also be the case. Check to see if a shelter requires Building Regulation approval as well.
What is the maximum number of sides that a smoking shelter can have?
To comply with the current laws, smoking shelters must be open to the outside and not be entirely enclosed or significantly shuttered. Implying that the shelter cannot have any opening or closing fittings that enclose more than 50% of the shelter.
How far away from any other structures must a smoking shelter be?
There are no legal requirements regarding the distance between a smoking shelter and any other structure. However, it should always be at least 2 metres away from adjacent structures. If it is too close to a building, there may be ventilation difficulties, and you may receive complaints if it is too close to any entranceways or windows.
If you require any further advice, please contact us directly or contact your local council or authority.
At The Shelter Store, we have all kinds of smoking shelters to match every type of premises. All of our smoking shelters are designed to meet current smoking laws. They are perfect for commercial establishments such as bars, nightclubs, restaurants, other public locations, or any business with smoking staff.
Are you interested in installing smoking shelters on your premises? Have a look at what smoking shelters we offer. Or get in touch with one of our team today to learn more about our products or installation service.