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INFORMATION FOR BUSINESSES
Download the "Q&A for
Workplaces" and "More Frequently Asked Questions"
for answers to common questions about the expanded Clean Indoor Air Act.
Click here to download "No Smoking" signs in
seven different languages for posting at entrances and throughout business
establishments.
Effective December 8, 2005, all indoor public spaces and all places of employment in Washington, including
restaurants and bars, will be smoke-free. This is one of the healthiest actions in our state’s history.
Below are a few of the benefits of going smoke-free and tips to help make the transition easier for you,
your staff, and your customers.
Reduce your employee costs.
Studies have shown healthier employees suffer less absenteeism and file fewer worker’s
compensation claims. These employees also cost less to insure and turnover is reduced.32
Decrease your operating costs.
You'll also be cutting other costs - no additional ventilation, fewer filters to
change, less cleaning and repainting, no burn holes, and no more ashtrays to buy
or empty. Plus, insurance companies often offer discounted rates for smoke-free
businesses.
Boost your profits.
Research shows people want businesses to be smoke-free. It saves money and it
saves lives. Many establishments across Washington state have
experienced a neutral or positive impact after going smoke-free voluntarily.
Tips for going smoke-free
- Inform employees about the new law. Develop a "Smoke-Free Workplace"
policy if you do not have one in place. Also, prepare your employees with
what to say if people try to smoke in your establishment. Something as easy
as "Sorry, you can’t smoke here. It’s the law," can be an effective way to
send the message.
- Promote your establishment going smoke-free by talking to your customers
and posting signage regarding going smoke-free on December 8, 2005. If you
decide to go smoke-free before December 8, 2005, hold a celebratory event
and inform your local media. Media may want to cover your smoke-free opening.
Another way to promote your smoke-free status may be to offer customers a
special discount or menu item on your business’ first smoke-free day, week,
or month.
- Make changes to facilitate a smoke-free environment. Remove ashtrays,
matches, "Smoking Section" signs, and other smoking paraphernalia.
- On December 8, 2005, a "No Smoking" sign must be conspicuously posted at
each entrance as well as in prominent locations in your establishment.
- For local assistance in going smoke-free, contact your local health
department.
For more information or to contact you Local Health Department
click here.
To download a PDF with the information on this page, click here.
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This Web site contains information on the revised Clean Indoor Air Act (RCW 70.160). It is not legal advice. This information cannot be considered as a substitute for legal advice from and representation by a qualified attorney.
Reference in this Web site to any specific commercial products, process, service, manufacturer, or company does not constitute its endorsement or recommendation by the Department of Health (DOH). Links to external Web sites are provided because they may contain relevant information and resources. These external Web sites are not maintained by DOH and the Department takes no responsibility for the views that may be represented, or the accuracy, propriety, or legality of any material contained on the sites. Read More...
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