#TurksandCaicos, January 30, 2018 – Providenciales – The Department of Mental Health and Substance Dependence within the Ministry of Health, Agriculture and Human Services hereby reminds the general public that it is unlawful to smoke in non-smoking areas. Based on the Tobacco Control Law which came into force on April 1st 2016, a person shall not smoke or hold a lighted tobacco product in an enclosed public place, enclosed workplace or public conveyance.
Schedule 3 of the Ordinance also bans smoking in the following:
Government Buildings & Vehicles Public parks
Hospitals & Medical facilities Restaurants
Public lounges and Canteen Areas Cinemas
Areas for public transportation Corridors, toilet areas, stairways and elevators
Hotels, motels, inns Vehicles used for public transportation
Bars, Pool Halls, Clubs & Casinos Reception rooms, lobbies or areas where the public have access.
Schools Meetings and interview rooms
Shops & Shopping centres
A person who contravenes this section of the law is liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding $5,000 or a term of imprisonment not exceeding two years. A manager, owner or lessee who consents to the smoking commits an offense and is liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding $3,000 or a term of imprisonment not exceeding eighteen months. A person who wishes to smoke may smoke at least 35 feet beyond an enclosed public place or any place previously listed.
Notice is also being given to Owners or Managers of outdoor bars or outdoor restaurants that an application must be made first to designate an outdoor smoking area. All outdoor smoking areas must be in line with the Tobacco Control Regulations and approved by the Environmental Health Department and the Planning Department.
Tobacco use is the second leading cause of death globally and is one of the main risk factors for chronic diseases, including cancer, lung diseases and cardiovascular diseases. This Law is part of the Ministry of Health’s ongoing efforts to mitigate against the harmful effects of second hand tobacco smoke and to ensure that the health of the general population is being preserved.
For more information about Tobacco Control Laws contact the Department of Mental Health and Substance Dependence by calling (649) 338-3613/(649) 338-4737.
