SMOKING IN PUBLIC PLACES
Comprehensive smoke-free legislation was successfully introduced in Scotland on 26 March 2006. To learn about the background of the act, research and facts leading to the introduction of the ban, and the latest national compliance data visit the Clearing the Air website (external link)
Background Research
In 2004, Health Scotland commissioned a series of research studies to support the consultation on smoking in public places.
The research was published in 2005 and included:
- An international review of the health and economic impact of the introduction of the restrictions of smoking in public places (Full Report and Summary Report)
- Passive smoking and associated causes of death in adults in Scotland
- Workplace Smoking Policies in Scotland
Evaluating the Smokefree Legislation
Health Scotland has commissioned a further series of major research projects designed to provide comprehensive before-and-after information about the effects of the Smoking Ban.
Planning for Evaluation of the Legislation Impacts
Details of the planning research were published by Haw (et al) in the March 2006 edition of the Journal Of Public Health (external link).
This report examines the approach being taken to monitor the health, economic and behavioural impact of the smoke-free legislation
Bar Workers Study
A major improvement in air quality is just one of the positive effects of Scotland’s smoking ban. Research shows that the ban has brought about an 86% reduction in exposure to second-hand smoke for bar workers across Scotland. Read the full report here.
Other Research Areas
The results of the comprehensive evaluation being coordinated by Health Scotland will be presented at the International ‘Towards a Smokefree Society’ Conference to be held in Edinburgh in September. This will set the main outcomes within the broader context of policy development and implementation experiences in Europe and the rest of the world.
Upcoming Events
‘Towards a Smokefree Society’ Conference
10-11 September 2007
An international event bringing together researchers, policy makers and practitioners with the overall purpose of mobilising further effective action on smoke free legislation
This conference will present new research evidence on the health, behavioural, social and economic imparts of the legislation from Scotland, Europe and elsewhere; outline new policy initiatives; and provide a forum for discussing approaches to the development and implementation of smoke-free legislation.
Find out more information and download booking forms here (external link)