Smoking ban

Smoking ban is a public policy that includes criminal laws and occupational safety and health regulations that prohibit tobacco smoking in workplaces and/or other public spaces. Legislation may also define smoking as more generally being the carrying or possessing of any lit tobacco product.

Overview

A smoking ban is a policy that prohibits smoking in public places and workplaces. The aim of such a ban is to protect people from the harmful effects of second-hand smoke, which include an increased risk of heart disease, cancer, emphysema, and other diseases. The World Health Organization considers second-hand smoke a major cause of preventable death worldwide.

Legislation

In many parts of the world, smoking bans are implemented by national, state, and local governments. These laws often prohibit smoking in public indoor spaces such as restaurants, bars, and offices, as well as some outdoor areas. Some jurisdictions also ban or regulate smoking in residential multi-unit housing.

Effects

Research has shown that smoking bans can reduce the number of heart attacks and asthma attacks, and lower the rates of lung cancer. They also have been shown to reduce the incidence of smoking, especially among young people.

Criticism

Critics of smoking bans argue that they infringe on individual rights and can lead to a loss of business in bars and restaurants. However, studies have shown that smoking bans do not have a significant impact on business in these establishments.

See also

• Tobacco control
• Public health
• Passive smoking
• Air pollution

References

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