The public is being asked for its views on a proposed ban on smoking in the workplace aimed at protecting employees from passive smoking. The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) has proposed the ban after an independent scientific group reported on the effects of passive smoking.
The findings were described by HSA chief executive Mr Tom Beegan as "shocking reading".
Introducing the public consultation process yesterday, Mr Beegan said among the main findings were that environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) or passive smoking caused lung cancer and probably other cancers, heart disease and respiratory problems.
He said the HSA had responsibility for limiting the exposure of workers to carcinogens. There was no doubt that ETS was a carcinogen. It caused cancer. At present the HSA was amending the current regulations on carcinogens to include ETS.
"We expect these regulations to come into force next year. The new regulations will ban smoking in enclosed workplaces."
Mr Beegan said before the new regulations were completed, the HSA wanted to hear the views of the public.
Following the public consultation, the HSA would organise information meetings throughout the State on the proposed changes, and how companies and safety professionals should prepare for the significant change.
Advertisements in the national press inviting submissions will appear today.
The closing date for submissions is May 23rd.