WORKPLACE SMOKING BAN TAKES EFFECT ON “WORLD NO TOBACCO DAY”

Saskatchewan employees will breathe easier May 31, 2009, as a workplace smoking ban takes effect.

"Our government believes in taking steps to protect the health and safety of Saskatchewan people," Advanced Education, Employment and Labour Minister Rob Norris said. "The new smoking ban means workers will not be exposed to second-hand smoke in enclosed workplaces."

The province-wide ban is the result of amendments to The Occupational Health and Safety Regulations, 1996. Smoking is prohibited in all enclosed places of employment, including buildings, vehicles, other enclosed structures and underground mines with the following exceptions:

• Traditional First Nations and Métis spiritual or cultural ceremonies where permission is granted;
• Designated smoking rooms for residents and visitors that are allowed by the Ministry of Health's Tobacco Control legislation;
• Areas of underground mines that are located more than 10 metres from other workers; and
• Some self-employed businesses, vehicles and camp living accommodations with permission and when others are not present.

"May 31 is World No Tobacco Day, a time to recognize the dangers of tobacco use and the negative health effects of second-hand smoke," Norris said. "This is a fitting day to launch a smoking ban to reduce exposure to second-hand smoke."

To find out more about the smoking ban contact Occupational Health and Safety at 1-800-567-7233. For information on the health effects of smoking, visit www.health.gov.sk.ca.

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For more information, contact:

Rikki Boté
Advanced Education, Employment and Labour
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4156
Email: rikki.bote@gov.sk.ca