Smoking Shelters FAQs

Where does the smoking ban apply?

Any enclosed or substantially enclosed workplace where more than one person works public transport, taxis, company vehicles any enclosed or substantially enclosed public places.

What are the Exceptions?

Your own house if not used as a work place designated smoking rooms in care homes, hospices, hotel bedrooms, private vehicles and adult prisons.

What signs if any will be required?

By law all premises must display a no smoking sign with the standard red symbol in a prominent position at each entrance of the building. The sign being a minimum of 148x210mm and the no smoking symbol at least 75mm in diameter. For company vehicles the standard international no smoking symbol should be used.

Do I need to provide a smoking shelter for employees?

The law does not require for you to provide an outside designated smoking area for employees or vistors who smoke. However it is recommended that a covered area is provided giving smokers protection from the weather and keeping areas clean.

Will I require planning permission?

You will not normally be required to apply for full planning consent. A company may be required to submit outline plans to the local authority for reviewing. It is recommended that you seek advice from your local authority with regards to planning permission if you are unsure in anyway.

What does substantially enclosed mean?

At least 50% of the smoking area must be permanently open to the flow of air.

Where do I position shelter?

You should locate the shelter at least 1.5m away from the existing building in order to allow for the flow of fresh air through all sides of the shelter. It is also recommended that you choose a location where there may be less wind effects.

How do I assemble a shelter?

The flat packed shelter should include assembly instructions and will normally require at least 2 people to assemble you also require certain tools in order to complete the installation.

How long will it take to assemble a shelter?

This will depend on the size and type of shelter, but on average it will normally take between 4-6 hours. This does not include time for any ground preparation.

How will I receive my shelter?

If not delivered and assembled by ourself you will receive shelters flat packed on a pallet. Please make sure there is sufficient access and space at your site when a wagon/transport vehicle comes to offload the pallet.

Do I need to provide a cigarette bin?

There is no legal requirement, however having a cigarette bin will greatly control cigarette litter and preserve the image of the company/organisation. If any of your visitors, employees, customers drop cigarette butts in a public place they could have a fine imposed under the Environment Protection Act 1990. The maximum fine for such an offence is £2500