They claim that they market to adults. The tobacco industry spends R240 million a year on advertising and promotions, yet claims that it does not influence either adults or children to smoke. This argument is preposterous. Both the US and UK governments after examining the evidence have concluded that a ban on smoking results in a fall in smoking levels. It is particularly important to ensure that workplace are smoke free.
Many people spend more of their day time at work than at any other place.
This in the course of a working life of 40 or more years, exposure to tobacco smoke at work can be considerable. It is now a scientific fact that passive smoking causes lung cancer and heart disease in non-smokers. In recent years voluntary policies to restrict smoking in the workplace have greatly increased. But large numbers of workers continue to be involuntarily exposed to the dangers of passive smoking. This Bill will contribute towards a safer and healthier work environment for all.