In 2007 the Premises and Enforcement Regulations 2006 act came into effect, requiring any public place or workplace classified as “enclosed” or “substantially enclosed” to become smoke-free. This resulted in the need for smoking shelters. As of 2019, 13.9% of the UK population classed themselves as smokers. However, because a significant section of the population continues to either smoke or vape, employers and organisations must provide a suitable smoking shelter option. The 25-34 age group, which makes up a substantial portion of the working population, also has the highest percentage of smokers.
One way of tackling issues around smokers is providing smoking shelters, which have become increasingly important in recent years as more and more become health-conscious and are concerned about the harmful effects of second-hand smoke. For any building that permits smoking on its premises, investing in a smoking shelter is essential. In this blog, we will discuss the importance of investing in a smoking shelter for your building and the possible benefits that it provides.
What is the Difference between enclosed & substantially enclosed smoking shelters?
Enclosed smoking shelters refers to the buildings that have a roof and are completely enclosed except for the doors, windows, and passageways.
Substantially enclosed smoking shelters refer to buildings or premises that have a roof of some type, and any openings will have a total area of less than half the area of the surrounding walls.
How can businesses comply with the current smoking shelter regulations?
Smoking is permitted in locations without a roof or if the total surrounding wall surface is less than half the amount covered by the Premises and Enforcement Regulations 2006.
This guideline should be used with caution because it considers all areas of open space, such as framework, as well as the influence of future changes, such as a plant growing.
The modular design of our range of shelters, particularly the Alcor smoking shelter, eliminates the burden of these issues, ensuring that everything is taken care of before installation. Smoking shelters must also be at least 20 feet away from any building entrances, exits, or ventilation points to be legal. However, there are a few more variables to consider when deciding where your smoking shelter will be located. Smoking Shelters from Tamstar are self-contained and can be placed anywhere that meets the described criteria.
All smoking shelters must allow sufficient airflow to guard against second-hand smoke through and around them. This can be done in several ways, including incorporating gaps.
Accessibility is also an important factor to consider. Is the smoking shelter accessible in a secure manner? Is it accessible by crossing a road or parking lot? If so, make sure that proper health and safety safeguards have been implemented.
Read more about: WHY ARE SMOKING SHELTERS NECESSARY FOR YOUR WORKPLACE?
Benefits of investing in smoking shelters
The first and most obvious benefit of investing in a smoking shelter is that it provides a designated area for smokers to smoke. This is particularly important in areas where smoking is not allowed indoors or where there are strict smoking regulations in place. By providing a designated area, you are reducing the risk of people smoking in unauthorised areas, which can cause issues with health and safety regulations. This not only ensures the safety of your employees, but it also creates a more welcoming environment for both smokers and non-smokers.
Another important benefit of investing in a smoking shelter is that it can help to improve the overall image of your building. Smoking shelters come in a variety of designs and styles, and they can sometimes be customised to match the aesthetics of your building. This means that you can choose a shelter that complements the existing architecture of your building and enhances its overall appearance. This is important because the appearance of your building can have a significant impact on how your business is perceived by potential customers and clients.
In addition to improving the appearance of your building, investing in a smoking shelter can also help boost your employees’ morale. Smokers often feel marginalised and excluded, especially in workplaces where smoking is prohibited. By providing a designated smoking area, you show your employees that you care about their needs and that you are willing to accommodate them. This can help to improve employee satisfaction and reduce turnover rates, which can positively impact your business’s overall productivity.
Read more about the Benefits of Investing in Smoking or vaping shelters in 2023
Reduce litter and improve the cleanliness.
Investing in a smoking shelter can also help to reduce litter and improve the cleanliness of your building. When smokers do not have a designated area to smoke, they may be more likely to throw cigarette butts on the ground, which can be unsightly and can create a hazard for other people. By providing a shelter with ashtrays and cigarette bins, you encourage smokers to dispose of their cigarettes in a properly, which can help to reduce litter and keep your building clean.
Cost-effective investment for your business
Smoking shelters can also be a cost-effective investment for your business. In areas where smoking is prohibited, smokers may have to leave the premises to smoke. This can lead to lost productivity and can increase the time that employees spend away from their workstations. By providing a smoking shelter, you are reducing the amount of time employees spend away from their workstations, which can lead to increased productivity and a more efficient workplace.
Reduce Fire Risk
Finally, investing in a smoking shelter can help to reduce the fire risk. When smokers are forced to smoke in areas that are not designated for smoking, they may accidentally start a fire by dropping a lit cigarette or by improperly disposing of cigarette butts. By providing a designated smoking area reduces the fire risk of fire and creates a safer workplace for everyone.
In conclusion, investing in a smoking shelter is an important decision for any building that permits smoking on its premises. Smoking shelters provide a designated area for smokers to smoke, improve the overall image of your building, boost employee morale, reduce litter, improve cleanliness, increase productivity, and reduce the risk of fire. Investing in a smoking shelter shows that you care about your employees’ needs and are committed to creating a safe and welcoming workplace for everyone.
Here at Tamstar, we are here for all your smoking shelter needs so please don’t hesitate to
Contact an experienced team member who would be more than happy help.