What is meant by tobacco-free public places?
Tobacco-free public places means that ALL indoor workplaces and indoor public places should be 100% smoke-free. Designating indoor spaces for smokers breaks these standards and is not in conformity with the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control guidelines. Designated smoking areas should not be allowed indoors.
Why does the tobacco industry lobby against tobacco-free public places?
The tobacco industry considers smoke-free laws to be the “most dangerous development to the viability of the tobacco industry that has yet occurred”. The industry works through front groups to vigorously oppose the passing and implementation of smoke-free laws, whether at local, sub-national or national level.
What false claims does the tobacco industry make about smoke-free laws?
The tobacco industry claims that smoke-free laws are: unnecessary; not feasible; and will have a negative impact on business (particularly restaurants, cafes, bars and casinos). They also claim that ventilation is an acceptable alternative.
What does the evidence show us about smoke-free laws?
The evidence shows that smoke-free laws are popular, enforceable and have a positive or no impact on business.
- How to counter tobacco industry myths
