As of Monday the 5th of September, new legislation comes into force in Scotland meaning patients and healthcare staff will no longer face second-hand smoke at hospital doors as a nationwide ban comes into effect.
This new legislation now means anyone caught lightening up within fifteen metres of a hospital building could face a fixed penalty notice of £50 or a fine of up to £1,000 if the case goes to court.
This is the latest step in the Scottish Government’s plan to create a tobacco free Scotland by 2034 and supports the voluntary smoke-free hospital grounds policy introduced in 2015.
The new law will apply to NHS hospital settings used for the treatment and care of patients and includes a ban on lighting up beneath overhanging structures.
Christina McKelvie, SNP MSP for Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse said:
“Everyone now knows that smoking is bad for your own health and hospital patients should be protected from the harmful effects of second-hand smoking.
“This legislation will help build on the Scottish Governments plan to have Scotland tobacco free by 2034, as well as building on our dedicated stop-smoking services and early intervention measures to stop youngsters picking up the habit altogether.
“Anyone looking to quit can contact the NHS QuitYourWay Helpline or speak to their local pharmacy to discuss the range of help available.”