On Wednesday 14 March 2007, the Council will introduce a complete ban on smoking in all its premises. The Council’s revised smoking policy has been agreed in partnership with the Trade Unions and will implement some significant changes:

 - Smoking will be prohibited at all premises controlled by the Council, including the grounds and car parks right up to the public highway. This includes council vehicles.

 - Smoking will be prohibited during work time, whether on work premises or not.  Smokers will no longer be permitted to take smoking breaks outside of their lunch break. 

Premises Managers will be responsible for ensuring the ban on Council premises and line managers will be responsible for ensuring their staff do not smoke during work time. The policy applies to all staff, Members and visitors to the Council.

The Council recognizes that these changes may not be easy for some people. Smoking cessation support will be offered to staff that wish to use these changes as an opportunity to give up smoking.  If you are interested in receiving smoking cessation support, please contact the Health and Safety Unit on 020 8496 4777.

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