Business Operators Must Post No Smoking Signs Within Six Months

The Ministry of Health is giving business operators a period of six months to post ‘No Smoking’ signs, in compliance with the Public Health (Tobacco Regulations) 2013, which ban smoking in public places. The legislation took effect on July 15.

Speaking at a JIS ‘Think Tank’, on July 16, Legal Officer at the Ministry of Health (MOH), Sheryl Dennis, emphasized that owners and operators of businesses are required to post “No smoking” signs in visible places.

“Signs are to be prominently posted in every compartment of public transport and businesses. They are also specifically instructed on how to place the signs, so that they are visible,” she said.

Fines and custodial sentences can be imposed on organizations that fail to comply with the Regulations after the six-month period.

Section 15 of the Public Health Act permits that when a company breaches the regulation, a fine of up to $1 million can be imposed.

“Where a corporation is found liable, the individual fines and the custodial sentences can be applied to the (Directors) and the company,” Ms. Dennis said.

“Owners and operators of businesses are encouraged to take steps that ensure compliance by posting signs within the specified time,” she said.