The Medical Officer of Health Dr. Kiran Kumar is reminding residents that smoking in public places is prohibited by the Tobacco Law 2008 and Regulations 2010. Indoor bars and restaurants, office buildings, businesses and other enclosed areas are smoke-free inside as well as up to10 ft. from any entry, exit or other opening. In addition, for the outdoor bars and restaurants, a no smoking area must be designated.

A public place means any place, including a workplace or public conveyance to which members of the public have access whether or not a fee is charged for entry. The Law describes an “enclosed place” as a place which has a full or partial roof with at least 50% of its sides covered with walls, windows, blinds or curtains.

Anyone who smokes in a public place is liable for summary conviction to a fine of $2000 for their first offence and up to $10,000 for the second offence.

In addition, Dr Kumar is reminding tobacco dealers that cigarettes can only be sold in full packages as prepared by the manufacturers. Hence, it is illegal to sell single cigarettes.

If anyone has any doubts about the legislation, please contact the Public Health Department to avoid prosecution. Further information on the Tobacco Law 2008 and Regulations 2010 can be had by accessing ministryofhealth.gov.ky and www.hsa.ky .

SIDE BAR:

Smoke-free public places

The following public places are smoke-free inside as well as up to10 ft from any entry, exit or other opening:

All offices, office buildings, warehouses and places of work

Common areas in apartment buildings, condominiums and retirement homes

Health care facilities and their grounds

Educational facilities and their grounds

Gyms, parks (including marine parks) and sport stadiums

Beauty parlors, barber shops and laundromats

Enclosed bars, and restaurants

Any means of transport (including boats) used for commercial, public or professional purposes and used by more than one person

All government owned facilities

Public toilets and public transportation terminals (e.g. the cruise terminals)

All shops and shopping centres

Concert and convention halls

Pool halls

Shopping centres