NON-SMOKERS across Noosa will breathe easier around schools and hospitals after the State Government announced plans to stamp out second-hand smoke.
Smokers found within five metres of health facilities and school grounds could face on-the-spot fines of $227 from 1 January this year.
The move follows changes to the Tobacco and Other Smoking Products Act 1998, which Acting Health Minister Mark McArdle said aimed to make Queensland a healthier place to live and raise a family.
“Second-hand smoke causes 10 per cent of deaths due to smoking-related diseases so the buffer around schools and health facilities will help disperse smokers that congregate at entry and exit points,” he said.
“Making Queensland hospitals and health facilities completely smoke free reinforces the message that these places are for healthcare and the promotion of healthy lifestyle choices.
“The non-smoking five metre buffer zones will also ensure smokers extinguish their cigarettes well before entering the school or health grounds.”
The new laws apply to all public hospitals and healthcare facilities (including public community health centres, aged care facilities, mental health facilities and rehabilitation facilities) as well as private hospitals and day hospitals.
The laws also apply to all state and non-state primary and secondary schools.
Under the amendments to the Tobacco and Other Smoking Products Act 1998 Queensland will also become the first state to subject e-cigarettes to the same laws as regular cigarettes.
The new laws will be enforced by Queensland Health Environmental Health Officers, Local Government officers, and Hospital and Health Service Chief Executive-appointed authorised persons such as security staff.
If smoking is pushing you further away from your family and friends phone 13 QUIT (13 78 48) for support and advice.
