According to the American Lung Association, every year in the U.S. over 392,000 people die from tobacco-caused disease, making it the leading cause of preventable death. Another 50,000 people die from exposure to secondhand smoke. Smoke-free bans in the last decade have become more and more popular due to all the alarming statistics for secondhand smoke.
In 2009, the US Navy investigated secondhand smoke levels aboard their submarines. According to their findings, "there is no risk-free level of exposure to secondhand smoke. Non-smokers who are exposed to secondhand smoke increase their risk of developing heart and lung disease." On April 8, 2010 the US Navy announced their submarines will be going Smoke - Free in 2010 to eliminate secondhand smoke risks. This is one of the first smoking bans effective on a government level. Now the United States government has yet to try to enact a federal smoking ban nationwide. Smoking bans are entirely decided, implemented and enforced by state and local government. According to the American Nonsmokers' Rights Foundation, as of October 2009, 71% of the US population lives under a ban on smoking in "workplaces and/or restaurants, and/or bars, by either state, commonwealth or local law, " though only 41.2% live under bans that consist of all workplaces, bars and restaurants. Some might say 41% doesn't seem like it could effect me but an additional three states in 2010 are implementing smoke free ban in public places.
Since there is no universal federal law on no smoking, following the right protocol can become very confusing. Smoking regulations vary state by state. Some states have comprehensive no-smoking laws already on the books, while some states are still catching up. As of March 2010, 27 states and Washington D.C. have passed laws that prohibit smoking in almost all public places and workplaces which also include restaurants and bars.
Some states have specific no-smoking signs that are required by state law. Size, color, material and wording are not consistent from state to state. Penalties, violations and tickets are common to enforce smoke-free bans. Be confident you are complying with your specific state's laws and don't have to worry about fines.
Friday, June 25, 2010
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Cigar Bars- Smoking Allowed
There is a familiar sight we've probably all seen: a cigarette stands outside a bar alone; crushed that it's unable to go in, tiny tears of ashes fall from its white paper, the spark in its eye fades away. Joe Camel and the Marlboro Man, long given up the fight, have put down their signs of protest and gone home. It, after all, is just no use: cigar bars are no place for cigarettes. They are havens for cigars. Places Ashton Classics can go where everybody knows their name, cigar bars are ideal places for both cigars and cigar lovers.
Established as venues that cater to the cigar smoker lifestyle - the love for the finer things - cigar bars really came into being during the 1990's, when the cigar revolution was underfoot (and head). Though these types of bars had been in existence for years, the revival of interest in cigars also revived the interest of pulling up a stool at a cigar bar.
Cigar bars may appear like regular bars on the surface: many serve food, many have all kinds of alcohol, and many have music or a live band entertaining the masses. To those who look closer, cigar bars are often a step up the ladder of luxury: a "dive bar" and a "cigar bar" are on opposite ends of the saloon spectrum.
Keeping with the old traditions of yore, many cigar bars cater purely to upper class men, those who enter are met with an ambience that speaks to old world gentleman. These upscale cigar bars also include humidors and some have lockers for patrons to place the cigars they are saving for later. Some cigar bars, including the Cuesta-Rey Cigar Bar in Tampa Bay, Florida, merge new world sports bars with classic cigar bars: they include pool tables, televisions, and a full bar of alcohol.
Some of the more relaxed cigar bars take pity on their inferior cousins: they allow cigarette smoking. However, the classic cigar bar turns its nose at the Virginia Slims and Salems of the world: they only allow cigars. These classic cigar bars do often serve alcohol and food, but many of the types served are aimed to enhance the experience of a good stogie.
As many cities across America and the world begin placing No Smoking signs on their city crests, adopting bans that prohibit smoking in public areas, cigar bars are being viewed as a refuge for those who love tobacco. Since many are immune to the smoking bans, having been given this immunity because they are venues established purely for tobacco use, cigar bars have been a saving grace for lovers of luxury. This has, in a fit of evasiveness, also caused many bars to pass themselves off as "cigar bars." However, classic cigar bars beat imposters any day: classic cigar bars smoke out the competition.
Established as venues that cater to the cigar smoker lifestyle - the love for the finer things - cigar bars really came into being during the 1990's, when the cigar revolution was underfoot (and head). Though these types of bars had been in existence for years, the revival of interest in cigars also revived the interest of pulling up a stool at a cigar bar.
Cigar bars may appear like regular bars on the surface: many serve food, many have all kinds of alcohol, and many have music or a live band entertaining the masses. To those who look closer, cigar bars are often a step up the ladder of luxury: a "dive bar" and a "cigar bar" are on opposite ends of the saloon spectrum.
Keeping with the old traditions of yore, many cigar bars cater purely to upper class men, those who enter are met with an ambience that speaks to old world gentleman. These upscale cigar bars also include humidors and some have lockers for patrons to place the cigars they are saving for later. Some cigar bars, including the Cuesta-Rey Cigar Bar in Tampa Bay, Florida, merge new world sports bars with classic cigar bars: they include pool tables, televisions, and a full bar of alcohol.
Some of the more relaxed cigar bars take pity on their inferior cousins: they allow cigarette smoking. However, the classic cigar bar turns its nose at the Virginia Slims and Salems of the world: they only allow cigars. These classic cigar bars do often serve alcohol and food, but many of the types served are aimed to enhance the experience of a good stogie.
As many cities across America and the world begin placing No Smoking signs on their city crests, adopting bans that prohibit smoking in public areas, cigar bars are being viewed as a refuge for those who love tobacco. Since many are immune to the smoking bans, having been given this immunity because they are venues established purely for tobacco use, cigar bars have been a saving grace for lovers of luxury. This has, in a fit of evasiveness, also caused many bars to pass themselves off as "cigar bars." However, classic cigar bars beat imposters any day: classic cigar bars smoke out the competition.
Friday, June 18, 2010
New Smoking Laws - Hospitality Jobs
In July 2007 NSW has joined most other states in Australia in banning indoor smoking in public places within licensed venues. In an effort to protect workers and patrons for the negative impacts caused by passive smoking the NSW government has established the NSW smoke-free Environment Act.
The smoking ban only applies to indoor public place and smoking is still aloud in alfresco and open air areas. However, there is considerable debate over what constitutes (or more precisely, what should constitute) an outdoor area. The governing legislation offers calculation on how to determine the correct percentage of open air space however the same legislation also considers a cafe umbrella a fix wall. Let's consider the following example. If an establishment has an outdoor area and they decide to install cafe umbrellas than the umbrellas will then constitute the ceiling at there lowest point, which changes the percentages of open air spaces and the establishment's outdoor area might not comply with the legislation. Therefore it must be a non smoking area.
The NSW public health units who are authorised to inspect and enforce the smoking legislation and investigate complaints also have questions about the merits of parts of the legislation (unofficially of course). And considering the monetary penalty for failure to comply with the legislation it is general opinion within the industry that the government must address the gray area within the legislation.
The following list the fines applicable.
* Smoking in a smoke free area - $550
* Allowing a person to smoke in a smoke free area - $1100 to $5000 (occupier)
* Failure to display signage - $550 (occupier)
This new legislation has far reaching consequences for both the large and small licensed venues within NSW and those venues that have planned, invested and implemented strategies in order to soften the blow will come out on top. So what does this mean to you the employee or prospective employee? Venues such as club, pubs and night clubs will definitely feel the impact with an estimated decrease in gaming revenue between 7% - 12% with no sign of recovery within 2 years. This means jobs that can offer progression opportunities, training and advancement will become harder and harder to find because these venues will be assessing every area of their business in order to reduce cost and trying to recover potential lost earning.
However, do not be disheartened. There will always be opportunities out there, you will have to look harder for them and you will have to be a little more homework before you change companies. The hospitality industry is very resilient industry and can offer good employment prospects even during these trying times.
The smoking ban only applies to indoor public place and smoking is still aloud in alfresco and open air areas. However, there is considerable debate over what constitutes (or more precisely, what should constitute) an outdoor area. The governing legislation offers calculation on how to determine the correct percentage of open air space however the same legislation also considers a cafe umbrella a fix wall. Let's consider the following example. If an establishment has an outdoor area and they decide to install cafe umbrellas than the umbrellas will then constitute the ceiling at there lowest point, which changes the percentages of open air spaces and the establishment's outdoor area might not comply with the legislation. Therefore it must be a non smoking area.
The NSW public health units who are authorised to inspect and enforce the smoking legislation and investigate complaints also have questions about the merits of parts of the legislation (unofficially of course). And considering the monetary penalty for failure to comply with the legislation it is general opinion within the industry that the government must address the gray area within the legislation.
The following list the fines applicable.
* Smoking in a smoke free area - $550
* Allowing a person to smoke in a smoke free area - $1100 to $5000 (occupier)
* Failure to display signage - $550 (occupier)
This new legislation has far reaching consequences for both the large and small licensed venues within NSW and those venues that have planned, invested and implemented strategies in order to soften the blow will come out on top. So what does this mean to you the employee or prospective employee? Venues such as club, pubs and night clubs will definitely feel the impact with an estimated decrease in gaming revenue between 7% - 12% with no sign of recovery within 2 years. This means jobs that can offer progression opportunities, training and advancement will become harder and harder to find because these venues will be assessing every area of their business in order to reduce cost and trying to recover potential lost earning.
However, do not be disheartened. There will always be opportunities out there, you will have to look harder for them and you will have to be a little more homework before you change companies. The hospitality industry is very resilient industry and can offer good employment prospects even during these trying times.
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Top Reasons to Stop Smoking
There are an infinite number of reasons to stop smoking; be it because of you health, the effect it is having on your family, or simply your ever decreasing bank balance. No matter why you have made the decision; it is the right decision. Here are a few more excellent reasons to urge you on
Despite what you may've been led to believe through your life, smoking is neither cool, nor sexy.
Before we knew just how damaging smoking was for us, it did look cool for a man to have a cigarette gently hanging from the corner of his mouth; or for a woman to seductively draw on her with her big rouge lips.
Now, people just see some sad and uninteresting fools, often huddling alone on a street corner somewhere.
Which moves us swiftly on to another top reason to stop smoking; you aren't a fully paid up member of society.
Times are changing, with there being an increasing number of places where you are not allowed to smoke inside. Indeed, there are many places with laws prohibiting smoking in some external areas.
Essentially therefore, smokers are nothing more than pariahs; second class citizens, undesirables, and any other such superlatives you can think of!
Okay, so we have established that you look a little bit sad and are considered a little bit sad by everyone else. But what of you yourself; it doesn't get much better.
For a start, you absolutely reek to high heaven; all the time. Okay, so you can have a nice shower in that wonderfully scented Aloe Vera, Ylang-Ylang, Jasmine and Passion Fruit, Tropical Sunshine Exfoliating Shower Cream. But then you go and light up, and you smell like a dog's... You get the picture I am sure.
Then of course you have no real sense of smell, (which is lucky in many ways as you cannot smell your own stench), or indeed and sense of taste. No matter whether you are eating at your local Taco Bell or Chef Ramsay's latest venture in Manhattan, you can't taste jack.
Despite what you may've been led to believe through your life, smoking is neither cool, nor sexy.
Before we knew just how damaging smoking was for us, it did look cool for a man to have a cigarette gently hanging from the corner of his mouth; or for a woman to seductively draw on her with her big rouge lips.
Now, people just see some sad and uninteresting fools, often huddling alone on a street corner somewhere.
Which moves us swiftly on to another top reason to stop smoking; you aren't a fully paid up member of society.
Times are changing, with there being an increasing number of places where you are not allowed to smoke inside. Indeed, there are many places with laws prohibiting smoking in some external areas.
Essentially therefore, smokers are nothing more than pariahs; second class citizens, undesirables, and any other such superlatives you can think of!
Okay, so we have established that you look a little bit sad and are considered a little bit sad by everyone else. But what of you yourself; it doesn't get much better.
For a start, you absolutely reek to high heaven; all the time. Okay, so you can have a nice shower in that wonderfully scented Aloe Vera, Ylang-Ylang, Jasmine and Passion Fruit, Tropical Sunshine Exfoliating Shower Cream. But then you go and light up, and you smell like a dog's... You get the picture I am sure.
Then of course you have no real sense of smell, (which is lucky in many ways as you cannot smell your own stench), or indeed and sense of taste. No matter whether you are eating at your local Taco Bell or Chef Ramsay's latest venture in Manhattan, you can't taste jack.
Saturday, June 12, 2010
A Reality Check - Quit Smoking
As smoking laws make it more and more difficult for people to smoke outside their homes, it could be a good incentive to give it up.
Smoking has been banned in most public places including your favorite pub, so what are you going to do, stare into your beer and brood on the unfairness of it all - try to quit smoking, its definitely a better alternative. People are often discriminated against in offices and other places because of smoking and to many people the smell of tobacco is offensive. Another very good reason to consider giving up this bad habit is your health; 'smoking kills' is being printed in bigger and bolder letters on every pack sold. Tobacco companies have had to pay out huge sums when they were sued by cancer patients and the courts ruled in the patient's favor. Yet another reason to quit would be, second hand smoke is killing your loved ones. Puffing up a storm at home is endangering the lives of your family because second hand smoke is deadly.
You will find plenty of advice on the internet about tips to quit smoking, ten best ways to stop smoking and so on. Reading all the books in creation, using patches, chewing gum, none of it works if the will to stop smoking does not come from deep inside you. Anyone who advises you to cut down slowly till you stop is living a fool's dream! As long as your body gets the daily dose of nicotine you are never going to stop. The only way is to make a firm decision, throw away every single pack of cigarettes and all your lighters and STOP!
It will not be easy but you can do it! Good Luck!
Smoking has been banned in most public places including your favorite pub, so what are you going to do, stare into your beer and brood on the unfairness of it all - try to quit smoking, its definitely a better alternative. People are often discriminated against in offices and other places because of smoking and to many people the smell of tobacco is offensive. Another very good reason to consider giving up this bad habit is your health; 'smoking kills' is being printed in bigger and bolder letters on every pack sold. Tobacco companies have had to pay out huge sums when they were sued by cancer patients and the courts ruled in the patient's favor. Yet another reason to quit would be, second hand smoke is killing your loved ones. Puffing up a storm at home is endangering the lives of your family because second hand smoke is deadly.
You will find plenty of advice on the internet about tips to quit smoking, ten best ways to stop smoking and so on. Reading all the books in creation, using patches, chewing gum, none of it works if the will to stop smoking does not come from deep inside you. Anyone who advises you to cut down slowly till you stop is living a fool's dream! As long as your body gets the daily dose of nicotine you are never going to stop. The only way is to make a firm decision, throw away every single pack of cigarettes and all your lighters and STOP!
It will not be easy but you can do it! Good Luck!
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Privacy Policy for http://smoking-laws.blogspot.com/
If you require any more information or have any questions about our privacy policy, please feel free to contact us by email at lucky.aisyah@gmail.com.
At http://smoking-laws.blogspot.com/, the privacy of our visitors is of extreme importance to us. This privacy policy document outlines the types of personal information is received and collected by http://smoking-laws.blogspot.com/ and how it is used.
Log Files
Like many other Web sites, http://smoking-laws.blogspot.com/ makes use of log files. The information inside the log files includes internet protocol ( IP ) addresses, type of browser, Internet Service Provider ( ISP ), date/time stamp, referring/exit pages, and number of clicks to analyze trends, administer the site, track user’s movement around the site, and gather demographic information. IP addresses, and other such information are not linked to any information that is personally identifiable.
Cookies and Web Beacons
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DoubleClick DART Cookie
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Some of our advertising partners may use cookies and web beacons on our site. Our advertising partners include ....
Google Adsense
These third-party ad servers or ad networks use technology to the advertisements and links that appear on http://smoking-laws.blogspot.com/ send directly to your browsers. They automatically receive your IP address when this occurs. Other technologies ( such as cookies, JavaScript, or Web Beacons ) may also be used by the third-party ad networks to measure the effectiveness of their advertisements and / or to personalize the advertising content that you see.
http://smoking-laws.blogspot.com/ has no access to or control over these cookies that are used by third-party advertisers.
You should consult the respective privacy policies of these third-party ad servers for more detailed information on their practices as well as for instructions about how to opt-out of certain practices. http://smoking-laws.blogspot.com/'s privacy policy does not apply to, and we cannot control the activities of, such other advertisers or web sites.
If you wish to disable cookies, you may do so through your individual browser options. More detailed information about cookie management with specific web browsers can be found at the browsers' respective websites.
At http://smoking-laws.blogspot.com/, the privacy of our visitors is of extreme importance to us. This privacy policy document outlines the types of personal information is received and collected by http://smoking-laws.blogspot.com/ and how it is used.
Log Files
Like many other Web sites, http://smoking-laws.blogspot.com/ makes use of log files. The information inside the log files includes internet protocol ( IP ) addresses, type of browser, Internet Service Provider ( ISP ), date/time stamp, referring/exit pages, and number of clicks to analyze trends, administer the site, track user’s movement around the site, and gather demographic information. IP addresses, and other such information are not linked to any information that is personally identifiable.
Cookies and Web Beacons
http://smoking-laws.blogspot.com/ does use cookies to store information about visitors preferences, record user-specific information on which pages the user access or visit, customize Web page content based on visitors browser type or other information that the visitor sends via their browser.
DoubleClick DART Cookie
.:: Google, as a third party vendor, uses cookies to serve ads on http://smoking-laws.blogspot.com/.
.:: Google's use of the DART cookie enables it to serve ads to users based on their visit to http://smoking-laws.blogspot.com/ and other sites on the Internet.
.:: Users may opt out of the use of the DART cookie by visiting the Google ad and content network privacy policy at the following URL - http://www.google.com/privacy_ads.html
Some of our advertising partners may use cookies and web beacons on our site. Our advertising partners include ....
Google Adsense
These third-party ad servers or ad networks use technology to the advertisements and links that appear on http://smoking-laws.blogspot.com/ send directly to your browsers. They automatically receive your IP address when this occurs. Other technologies ( such as cookies, JavaScript, or Web Beacons ) may also be used by the third-party ad networks to measure the effectiveness of their advertisements and / or to personalize the advertising content that you see.
http://smoking-laws.blogspot.com/ has no access to or control over these cookies that are used by third-party advertisers.
You should consult the respective privacy policies of these third-party ad servers for more detailed information on their practices as well as for instructions about how to opt-out of certain practices. http://smoking-laws.blogspot.com/'s privacy policy does not apply to, and we cannot control the activities of, such other advertisers or web sites.
If you wish to disable cookies, you may do so through your individual browser options. More detailed information about cookie management with specific web browsers can be found at the browsers' respective websites.
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
How Smoking in Public Places is Becoming Extinct
Smoking in public places is increasingly becoming a taboo in many places in different countries. In the United States alone, public smoking is now prohibited in many states than ever imagined a few years ago. Smokers are fast running out of places to smoke. Whilst some argue that this is an abuse of peoples' rights it would appear secondhand smoke caused by public smoking is a greater evil.
Most people are unaware of the effects of inhaling side stream smoke from a passing smoker or in an elevator for instance. This ignorance continues to cost countless lives let alone the unnecessary dollar drain to the public purse through increased public health spending. For this cause it is justifiable for authorities to drive smoking in public places into extinction.
Many countries in Europe have since banned smoking in public establishments such as bars and airports, libraries and public lounges. Anti-smoking laws with severe penalties have now become the norm. For instance in the UK, all public transport and buildings are mandated to clearly display no smoking signs. Further authorities in these buildings are required by law to report any violators failure of which they will be held responsible.
Amazingly, research in Canada shows that employees in work environments without any smoking bans smoke up to five more cigarettes daily than in places with restrictions. In other words there is scientific evidence to show that smoking bans actually help reduce the amounts of cigarettes smoked per day. Employees were even shown not to have a desire to compensate for this reduced cigarettes during breaks such as lunch hour or after work.
As the bans imposed by anti-smoking laws become too wide spread, one can predict that smoking in public places will fast become a serious burden that not many would be willing to contend with. From enduring long hours in the airport, in the library, at work, at crowded soccer fields to any such place where the public comes together it will be really a nightmare. Many will be discouraged from taking up smoking and for those who already smoke questions of sound judgement and irresponsibility will be raised in continuing to smoke in light of all these apparent restrictions.
On the other hand, in all likelihood tobacco companies will not let go of this lucrative market without putting up a fierce fight. Even now some tobacco companies carry out own research designed to disapprove or at least question some of the mainstream scientific discoveries in addition to developing own alternative tobacco products. As smoking tobacco in public places goes extinct statistics show that smokeless tobacco products demand is increasing. It is increasing more so at the behest of tobacco companies working hard to recover a dwindling market through restrictive anti-smoking laws.
Most people are unaware of the effects of inhaling side stream smoke from a passing smoker or in an elevator for instance. This ignorance continues to cost countless lives let alone the unnecessary dollar drain to the public purse through increased public health spending. For this cause it is justifiable for authorities to drive smoking in public places into extinction.
Many countries in Europe have since banned smoking in public establishments such as bars and airports, libraries and public lounges. Anti-smoking laws with severe penalties have now become the norm. For instance in the UK, all public transport and buildings are mandated to clearly display no smoking signs. Further authorities in these buildings are required by law to report any violators failure of which they will be held responsible.
Amazingly, research in Canada shows that employees in work environments without any smoking bans smoke up to five more cigarettes daily than in places with restrictions. In other words there is scientific evidence to show that smoking bans actually help reduce the amounts of cigarettes smoked per day. Employees were even shown not to have a desire to compensate for this reduced cigarettes during breaks such as lunch hour or after work.
As the bans imposed by anti-smoking laws become too wide spread, one can predict that smoking in public places will fast become a serious burden that not many would be willing to contend with. From enduring long hours in the airport, in the library, at work, at crowded soccer fields to any such place where the public comes together it will be really a nightmare. Many will be discouraged from taking up smoking and for those who already smoke questions of sound judgement and irresponsibility will be raised in continuing to smoke in light of all these apparent restrictions.
On the other hand, in all likelihood tobacco companies will not let go of this lucrative market without putting up a fierce fight. Even now some tobacco companies carry out own research designed to disapprove or at least question some of the mainstream scientific discoveries in addition to developing own alternative tobacco products. As smoking tobacco in public places goes extinct statistics show that smokeless tobacco products demand is increasing. It is increasing more so at the behest of tobacco companies working hard to recover a dwindling market through restrictive anti-smoking laws.
Non-Smoker's Guide to Europe's Smoking Laws
Here is the rundown on the smoking rules in European countries. We are always on the lookout for countries that have decided to go smoke-free or at least make it easier for non-smokers to eat out.
Austria
The Austrian republic is one of Europe's last refuges for smokers; it is still resisting the smoking bans in effect in other EU countries. However, the state-run railways OeBB have been non-smoking from September 1, 2007. Austria's Health Minister Andrea Kdolsky is considering introducing smoking rules in restaurants and cafes by 2008. A 2005 law that forbids smoking in public places ( but specifically excludes cafes and restaurants) would be reinforced from January 1, 2008 to require larger restaurants to split their dining areas 50-50 between smoking and non-smoking sections. Smaller eateries would have to decide whether they were smoking or non-smoking establishments and put up a sign declaring their choice.
Germany
As of September 1, 2007, smoking is banned in public places in all of Germany. But local laws regulate smoking in restaurants and cafes in their own jurisdiction, so you will see some differences in how the law is carried out by each German state.German trains and train stations however, have banned smoking entirely. Some of the larger train stations have special smoking rooms available for those who need their nicotine fix before or after their smoke-free voyage.
Ireland
In 2004, Ireland became the first country in the world to impose an outright ban on smoking in workplaces. Irish legislation makes it an offence to smoke in workplaces, which effectively bans smoking in pubs and restaurants.
Italy
An official ban on smoking in all enclosed public places was imposed in Italy on January 10, 2005. This law obliges restaurants, bars, offices and factories to prohibit tobacco use on their premises unless they are able to provide special sealed off rooms with smoke extractors. Because few retailers were able to fulfill this condition, it is now practically impossible to smoke in any public place. A fine of up to 2,000 Euros could be levied on businesses which fail to comply with this law. And smokers may be fined up to 275 Euros which can be doubled if a smoker lights up in front of children or pregnant women.
Finland
Except in designated smoking zones, smoking is not permitted indoors in public buildings and other places open to the public. Smoking zones are not available in facilities for children and other persons under eighteen. Smoking is also prohibited on trains, trams, buses or aircraft, schools and other educational institutions, offices and other places of work.
France
Since February 1, 2007 smoking was banned in workplaces and other public buildings and will expand in 2008 to include cafes, restaurants and bars. Many restaurants have already become smoke-free or offer non-smoking sections.
The Netherlands
On January 1, 2004, cigarettes were banned from many public places including railway stations, trains, toilets and offices.
Norway
A national ban was imposed on smoking in restaurants, bars and cafes from June 1, 2004
Sweden
Since May, 2005 smoking has been prohibited in all bars and restaurants. Establishments wanting to allow smoking are required to have a closed-off section with specially-designed ventilation, where no food or drink can be served.
United Kingdom
Smoking is banned in nearly all enclosed public spaces - including bars, restaurants and workplaces. The ban came into effect in England on July 1, 2006. Scotland introduced a ban in March 2006, followed by Wales and Northern Ireland in April 2007.
Austria
The Austrian republic is one of Europe's last refuges for smokers; it is still resisting the smoking bans in effect in other EU countries. However, the state-run railways OeBB have been non-smoking from September 1, 2007. Austria's Health Minister Andrea Kdolsky is considering introducing smoking rules in restaurants and cafes by 2008. A 2005 law that forbids smoking in public places ( but specifically excludes cafes and restaurants) would be reinforced from January 1, 2008 to require larger restaurants to split their dining areas 50-50 between smoking and non-smoking sections. Smaller eateries would have to decide whether they were smoking or non-smoking establishments and put up a sign declaring their choice.
Germany
As of September 1, 2007, smoking is banned in public places in all of Germany. But local laws regulate smoking in restaurants and cafes in their own jurisdiction, so you will see some differences in how the law is carried out by each German state.German trains and train stations however, have banned smoking entirely. Some of the larger train stations have special smoking rooms available for those who need their nicotine fix before or after their smoke-free voyage.
Ireland
In 2004, Ireland became the first country in the world to impose an outright ban on smoking in workplaces. Irish legislation makes it an offence to smoke in workplaces, which effectively bans smoking in pubs and restaurants.
Italy
An official ban on smoking in all enclosed public places was imposed in Italy on January 10, 2005. This law obliges restaurants, bars, offices and factories to prohibit tobacco use on their premises unless they are able to provide special sealed off rooms with smoke extractors. Because few retailers were able to fulfill this condition, it is now practically impossible to smoke in any public place. A fine of up to 2,000 Euros could be levied on businesses which fail to comply with this law. And smokers may be fined up to 275 Euros which can be doubled if a smoker lights up in front of children or pregnant women.
Finland
Except in designated smoking zones, smoking is not permitted indoors in public buildings and other places open to the public. Smoking zones are not available in facilities for children and other persons under eighteen. Smoking is also prohibited on trains, trams, buses or aircraft, schools and other educational institutions, offices and other places of work.
France
Since February 1, 2007 smoking was banned in workplaces and other public buildings and will expand in 2008 to include cafes, restaurants and bars. Many restaurants have already become smoke-free or offer non-smoking sections.
The Netherlands
On January 1, 2004, cigarettes were banned from many public places including railway stations, trains, toilets and offices.
Norway
A national ban was imposed on smoking in restaurants, bars and cafes from June 1, 2004
Sweden
Since May, 2005 smoking has been prohibited in all bars and restaurants. Establishments wanting to allow smoking are required to have a closed-off section with specially-designed ventilation, where no food or drink can be served.
United Kingdom
Smoking is banned in nearly all enclosed public spaces - including bars, restaurants and workplaces. The ban came into effect in England on July 1, 2006. Scotland introduced a ban in March 2006, followed by Wales and Northern Ireland in April 2007.
Public Tobacco Smoking Laws Aid to Quit Smoking
The cigarette smoking habit has seen an evolution in its perception and acceptance. Early in its history tobacco smoking was viewed as actually being good for you. How untrue that tale turned out to be. Instead we now know what tobacco does. It causes problems like cancer, problems in the lungs and heart disease. Those are just the major risks involved. Others like the smell and the expense of the addiction all contribute to the bad side effects.
National awareness of these problems have legislated action and laws against tobacco smoking and the need to quit smoking. Some of these actions include the following.
Anti-Smoking Public Service Announcements: Truth is one very successful ad agency that has depicted the bad effects of smoking. They portray the tobacco industry as an evil empire. Their commercials are also cryptic in showing the effects of tobacco and smoking. The ads they show have even reached audiences of the NFL Super bowl.
Public Laws have also curtailed smoking on a social level. In many states around the USA smoking bans in social places like restaurants, bars and recreation facilities are banned. The states with such bans include:
Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Missouri, Mississippi, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island,South Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Washington Dc, Washington State, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming
High taxes on cigarettes and cigars also cut deeper into the budgets of smokers. It is estimated that a smoker who starts early in his age will end up spending nearly two million dollars on cigarettes in his lifetime.
Agencies like insurance and health organizations also penalize smokers. This is accomplished with expensive fees and less services available due to the dangers of tobacco.
National awareness of these problems have legislated action and laws against tobacco smoking and the need to quit smoking. Some of these actions include the following.
Anti-Smoking Public Service Announcements: Truth is one very successful ad agency that has depicted the bad effects of smoking. They portray the tobacco industry as an evil empire. Their commercials are also cryptic in showing the effects of tobacco and smoking. The ads they show have even reached audiences of the NFL Super bowl.
Public Laws have also curtailed smoking on a social level. In many states around the USA smoking bans in social places like restaurants, bars and recreation facilities are banned. The states with such bans include:
Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Missouri, Mississippi, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island,South Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Washington Dc, Washington State, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming
High taxes on cigarettes and cigars also cut deeper into the budgets of smokers. It is estimated that a smoker who starts early in his age will end up spending nearly two million dollars on cigarettes in his lifetime.
Agencies like insurance and health organizations also penalize smokers. This is accomplished with expensive fees and less services available due to the dangers of tobacco.
Monday, June 7, 2010
Second-Hand Smoking - Smoking Law Change in South Africa
Imagine yourself in your home in South Africa. It is a quiet moment, as you relax in front of the TV, or maybe you are in your garden enjoying the sunshine. Birds are singing in the trees, the sky is blue, you have earned a well-deserved time off and you feel good.
All of a sudden, you are ambushed. Two heroin addicts have broken into your home and are pinning you down. You cannot move. One is preparing a hypodermic needle. You instinctively know it has heroin in it and you want to scream "No!" but you are held down and silenced and there is nothing you can do but watch as the needle sinks into your vein and you feel the drug in your blood, along with whatever impurities were added to it. The heroin addicts saunter away, smirking at you, for even trying to stop this assault.
The next day, your body goes through a terrible reaction to the after-effects of this toxic injection. You become ill and have to take time off work. And just as you thought it was safe, the heroin addicts break into your home, one pins you down, and the other is holding a syringe and smirking at you. You know what is going to happen next and you are powerless to stop it...
Imagine this happening every day in your own home. Imagine that you now have to keep all your windows closed at all times, keep your eye on the lock, and be careful all the time. And then, when you think you are safe to go out to work or the shops, all of a sudden, you are ambushed again. You recognize the heroin addicts. Only this time there are four of them, you see the needle, you see them smirking at you, and you feel sick to your stomach knowing what is about to happen to you...
It is really awful, is it not? But if you are a smoker smoking illegally, then you are that addict. You are forcing your neighbour to take a drug that they choose not to take. You are forcing them to take this drug into their bloodstream whether they like it or not. If your workplace is near someone's home and you force them to smoke when you do, you are just like those heroin-injecting thugs in this story. It is one thing being an addict, and of course, the addiction is just that - something one cannot help. However, the law is now here to stop you from forcing innocent people to take your drug in their bloodstream.
Not convinced? Here are some facts that you may be interested in...
* The owner of a workplace, including pub, bar, restaurant, beauty salon, hairdresser, or any other workplace can be fined up to R50,000 if their premises breach the smoking laws.
* Not only can the owner of this establishment be fined, but you personally can be fined R500 for smoking in a non-smoking zone.
* Non-smoking zones include partially enclosed public places such as covered patios (such as by a roof or awnings), verandas, balconies, walkways, lifts, and parking areas.You can face up to your addiction and do something about it. Quitting may be much easier than you think.
Everyone should have the right to choose and the right to freedom. Nobody is taking away a smoker's addiction. That is a smoker's right. It was my right too when I was a smoker, and I know from experience how I just could not cope without nicotine. I would not suggest taking away an addict's drug; that is their choice, and that choice must be respected. I have been there myself. However, now it is now law that smokers must not take their drug in forms that are harmful to others in public places. And that also must be respected.
All of a sudden, you are ambushed. Two heroin addicts have broken into your home and are pinning you down. You cannot move. One is preparing a hypodermic needle. You instinctively know it has heroin in it and you want to scream "No!" but you are held down and silenced and there is nothing you can do but watch as the needle sinks into your vein and you feel the drug in your blood, along with whatever impurities were added to it. The heroin addicts saunter away, smirking at you, for even trying to stop this assault.
The next day, your body goes through a terrible reaction to the after-effects of this toxic injection. You become ill and have to take time off work. And just as you thought it was safe, the heroin addicts break into your home, one pins you down, and the other is holding a syringe and smirking at you. You know what is going to happen next and you are powerless to stop it...
Imagine this happening every day in your own home. Imagine that you now have to keep all your windows closed at all times, keep your eye on the lock, and be careful all the time. And then, when you think you are safe to go out to work or the shops, all of a sudden, you are ambushed again. You recognize the heroin addicts. Only this time there are four of them, you see the needle, you see them smirking at you, and you feel sick to your stomach knowing what is about to happen to you...
It is really awful, is it not? But if you are a smoker smoking illegally, then you are that addict. You are forcing your neighbour to take a drug that they choose not to take. You are forcing them to take this drug into their bloodstream whether they like it or not. If your workplace is near someone's home and you force them to smoke when you do, you are just like those heroin-injecting thugs in this story. It is one thing being an addict, and of course, the addiction is just that - something one cannot help. However, the law is now here to stop you from forcing innocent people to take your drug in their bloodstream.
Not convinced? Here are some facts that you may be interested in...
* The owner of a workplace, including pub, bar, restaurant, beauty salon, hairdresser, or any other workplace can be fined up to R50,000 if their premises breach the smoking laws.
* Not only can the owner of this establishment be fined, but you personally can be fined R500 for smoking in a non-smoking zone.
* Non-smoking zones include partially enclosed public places such as covered patios (such as by a roof or awnings), verandas, balconies, walkways, lifts, and parking areas.You can face up to your addiction and do something about it. Quitting may be much easier than you think.
Everyone should have the right to choose and the right to freedom. Nobody is taking away a smoker's addiction. That is a smoker's right. It was my right too when I was a smoker, and I know from experience how I just could not cope without nicotine. I would not suggest taking away an addict's drug; that is their choice, and that choice must be respected. I have been there myself. However, now it is now law that smokers must not take their drug in forms that are harmful to others in public places. And that also must be respected.
Saturday, June 5, 2010
Do Anti-Smoking Laws Work?
The dangers of smoking to the actual smoker and to the people that are nearby have become common knowledge. Individuals that smoke raise their risks of developing all types of cancer including, lung cancer as well as heart disease. Smoking cigarettes also cause the blood vessels to narrow, which increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. Individuals that live with smokers or individuals who simply inhale second hand smoke, also have increased risk for heart disease and cancer. Young children and older adults are the most at risk.
Individuals that are against anti-smoking laws typically argue that it encroaches on an individual smokers rights, as well as those of business owners, who in growing numbers, are not allowed to let patrons smoke. Business owners have been particularly vocal about the unfairness of the ban. They cite that it will drive away business and costs them money. This is especially true for bars and restaurants. The battles rage heavily when some types of establishments are allowed to continue to let people smoke, while others are not. This is believed to provide an unfair advantage.
It may be too soon to determine whether or not anti-smoking laws are working. This is because in many cities, these laws have just been passed and there have not been enough time for any lengthy studies to be performed. However, research does show that secondhand smoke can be terribly dangerous. It can lead to cancer and heart problems. Some opponents of the ban may argue that the amount of time spent in a restaurant or establishment isn't enough time to do any damage. However, the amount of time that is spent in these places can add up over one's lifetime, which can unwittingly put an individual at risk even when they have not chosen to smoke.
Anti-smoking laws have become more and more common. Due to concern for people who may be affected by second-hand smoking, many cities are cracking down on smoking in public. While most people agree with the ban, there are many who do not and believe that cities are overstepping their boundaries. However, any legislation that protects the public from someone else's dangerous choices should be considered. Currently, it is too early to tell whether or not anti-smoking laws works. However, as times passes, there are likely to be studies to determine if this is an effective method to fighting the dangers of secondhand smoke.
Individuals that are against anti-smoking laws typically argue that it encroaches on an individual smokers rights, as well as those of business owners, who in growing numbers, are not allowed to let patrons smoke. Business owners have been particularly vocal about the unfairness of the ban. They cite that it will drive away business and costs them money. This is especially true for bars and restaurants. The battles rage heavily when some types of establishments are allowed to continue to let people smoke, while others are not. This is believed to provide an unfair advantage.
It may be too soon to determine whether or not anti-smoking laws are working. This is because in many cities, these laws have just been passed and there have not been enough time for any lengthy studies to be performed. However, research does show that secondhand smoke can be terribly dangerous. It can lead to cancer and heart problems. Some opponents of the ban may argue that the amount of time spent in a restaurant or establishment isn't enough time to do any damage. However, the amount of time that is spent in these places can add up over one's lifetime, which can unwittingly put an individual at risk even when they have not chosen to smoke.
Anti-smoking laws have become more and more common. Due to concern for people who may be affected by second-hand smoking, many cities are cracking down on smoking in public. While most people agree with the ban, there are many who do not and believe that cities are overstepping their boundaries. However, any legislation that protects the public from someone else's dangerous choices should be considered. Currently, it is too early to tell whether or not anti-smoking laws works. However, as times passes, there are likely to be studies to determine if this is an effective method to fighting the dangers of secondhand smoke.
Thursday, June 3, 2010
Weird Smoking Laws
As more and more states adopt laws that prohibit smoking in public, crushing the hopes of cigar smokers with the ease of crushing a used cigarette, people everywhere are calling "foul," restraining themselves from telling lawmakers to kiss their ash. The laws, to the avid cigar smoker, are avidly ridiculous.
But, ridiculous laws are a part of worldly culture. From a law in Denver that forbids people from loaning vacuum cleaners to other residences, to a law in Wyoming that prohibits people from taking photographs of rabbits during the month of June, many rules and regulations simply make no sense. There is even a law in Champaign, Illinois that makes it illegal for someone to pee in the mouth of their next door neighbor, undoubtedly ruining the weekend plans of innumerable Midwest citizens.
It was only a matter of time before this law lunacy filtered into the tobacco industry. Recently, they've become more obvious, branding our world with a "No Smoking" sign. Not limited to any one state, or any one country, strange smoking laws can be found almost anywhere.
Australia: Australia has a law that bans children from purchasing cigars or cigarettes. This isn't particularly strange as many countries have similar regulations. However, Australia stands out because children, though they can't purchase tobacco, are legally allowed to consume it. As long as they get an adult to buy it for them, Australian children are freely allowed to smoke a cigar in front of a policeman, a parent, a teacher, or even a kangaroo.
New Orleans, Louisiana: In a city known for guilty pleasures - home to everything from Mardi Gras to extravagant casinos - cigar and cigarette smoking are a bit tamed. New Orleans possesses a law that prohibits anyone participating in a carnival or parade to use tobacco products while doing so. In addition to this, a "No Smoking" sign must be visibly attached to all parade floats, not that any onlookers, with troves of nearby women attempting to get beads, are really paying attention.
Zion, Illinois: Just when you think you've heard it all in regards to rules, there is a law in Zion that prohibits owners from giving a lit cigar to any of their domesticated animals. While the law specifically names dogs and cats, it surely applies to any kind of pet: hamster, gerbil, and goldfish. None of these pets are allowed to smoke cigars, no matter how much they beg and plead.
France: Colonel Mustard, in the Boiler Room, with an ashtray. That's right, an ashtray. In France, ashtrays are considered deadly weapons. Perhaps this is because people can use ashtrays to hit others, or perhaps it's because ashtrays are known to prey on unsuspecting victims, jumping them in alleys and blinding them with a cloud of dust. But the most likely reason is simply because it's France. A nation reputed for passivity, some people may think the citizens of France are homicidally threatened by the cast from The Brady Bunch. We do hear that Marcia's packing.
New Jersey: While a sign reading "Do Not Feed the Animals" is common in many zoos, New Jersey takes this notion one step further. Passing a law that prohibits people from giving local zoo animals cigars or whiskey, the creatures in this captivity obviously have no fun. But, being that whiskey is the only liquor specifically named, it leads one to wonder if providing the animals with a cold beer would be equally frowned upon. If not, perhaps the animals would be able to smoke a cigar on occasion. Ya know, socially.
South Bend, Indiana: Keeping with the animal kingdom theme, in South Bend it is illegal to make a monkey smoke a cigarette. This law goes back to 1924 when a monkey was found guilty of the crime of smoking a cigarette and forced to pay a fine of 25 dollars, as well as trial costs. We're not sure what happened when the monkey, recently out of work, wasn't able to come up with the money. Perhaps, he was prohibited from partaking in any form of Evolution.
Newport, Rhode Island: Resting on the East Coast, Newport has a law that prohibits people from smoking a pipe after sunset. Any other time is fine, but once the sun sets, this is one law the avid tobacco lover can not put in his pipe and smoke.
Marceline, Missouri: In this Missouri town, minors are allowed to purchase rolling papers and tobacco, but they aren't allowed to purchase lighters. If only, if only, there was a way to get matches easily, perhaps from a local restaurant or café. Maybe in a perfect world, the ability to find matches would appear.
Obviously, this world contains a great number of laws that are founded with about as much reason as turning down a million dollars or volunteering to stay on the Titanic. But, the cigar smoker can rest assured that it's not just their luxury that falls victim to this madness. These kinds of laws are everywhere, from prohibiting humming to saying its illegal to drive in a housecoat, these kind of rules put the word "awful" in the word "lawful." And, they make one wonder if more laws can be passed, perhaps a rule that replaces every cigarette with its superior: a cigar.
But, ridiculous laws are a part of worldly culture. From a law in Denver that forbids people from loaning vacuum cleaners to other residences, to a law in Wyoming that prohibits people from taking photographs of rabbits during the month of June, many rules and regulations simply make no sense. There is even a law in Champaign, Illinois that makes it illegal for someone to pee in the mouth of their next door neighbor, undoubtedly ruining the weekend plans of innumerable Midwest citizens.
It was only a matter of time before this law lunacy filtered into the tobacco industry. Recently, they've become more obvious, branding our world with a "No Smoking" sign. Not limited to any one state, or any one country, strange smoking laws can be found almost anywhere.
Australia: Australia has a law that bans children from purchasing cigars or cigarettes. This isn't particularly strange as many countries have similar regulations. However, Australia stands out because children, though they can't purchase tobacco, are legally allowed to consume it. As long as they get an adult to buy it for them, Australian children are freely allowed to smoke a cigar in front of a policeman, a parent, a teacher, or even a kangaroo.
New Orleans, Louisiana: In a city known for guilty pleasures - home to everything from Mardi Gras to extravagant casinos - cigar and cigarette smoking are a bit tamed. New Orleans possesses a law that prohibits anyone participating in a carnival or parade to use tobacco products while doing so. In addition to this, a "No Smoking" sign must be visibly attached to all parade floats, not that any onlookers, with troves of nearby women attempting to get beads, are really paying attention.
Zion, Illinois: Just when you think you've heard it all in regards to rules, there is a law in Zion that prohibits owners from giving a lit cigar to any of their domesticated animals. While the law specifically names dogs and cats, it surely applies to any kind of pet: hamster, gerbil, and goldfish. None of these pets are allowed to smoke cigars, no matter how much they beg and plead.
France: Colonel Mustard, in the Boiler Room, with an ashtray. That's right, an ashtray. In France, ashtrays are considered deadly weapons. Perhaps this is because people can use ashtrays to hit others, or perhaps it's because ashtrays are known to prey on unsuspecting victims, jumping them in alleys and blinding them with a cloud of dust. But the most likely reason is simply because it's France. A nation reputed for passivity, some people may think the citizens of France are homicidally threatened by the cast from The Brady Bunch. We do hear that Marcia's packing.
New Jersey: While a sign reading "Do Not Feed the Animals" is common in many zoos, New Jersey takes this notion one step further. Passing a law that prohibits people from giving local zoo animals cigars or whiskey, the creatures in this captivity obviously have no fun. But, being that whiskey is the only liquor specifically named, it leads one to wonder if providing the animals with a cold beer would be equally frowned upon. If not, perhaps the animals would be able to smoke a cigar on occasion. Ya know, socially.
South Bend, Indiana: Keeping with the animal kingdom theme, in South Bend it is illegal to make a monkey smoke a cigarette. This law goes back to 1924 when a monkey was found guilty of the crime of smoking a cigarette and forced to pay a fine of 25 dollars, as well as trial costs. We're not sure what happened when the monkey, recently out of work, wasn't able to come up with the money. Perhaps, he was prohibited from partaking in any form of Evolution.
Newport, Rhode Island: Resting on the East Coast, Newport has a law that prohibits people from smoking a pipe after sunset. Any other time is fine, but once the sun sets, this is one law the avid tobacco lover can not put in his pipe and smoke.
Marceline, Missouri: In this Missouri town, minors are allowed to purchase rolling papers and tobacco, but they aren't allowed to purchase lighters. If only, if only, there was a way to get matches easily, perhaps from a local restaurant or café. Maybe in a perfect world, the ability to find matches would appear.
Obviously, this world contains a great number of laws that are founded with about as much reason as turning down a million dollars or volunteering to stay on the Titanic. But, the cigar smoker can rest assured that it's not just their luxury that falls victim to this madness. These kinds of laws are everywhere, from prohibiting humming to saying its illegal to drive in a housecoat, these kind of rules put the word "awful" in the word "lawful." And, they make one wonder if more laws can be passed, perhaps a rule that replaces every cigarette with its superior: a cigar.
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