September 17, 2014 11.20 am This story is over 114 months old

Lincoln council staff face ban on smoking breaks

No smoking allowed: Staff at the City of Lincoln Council offices face a ban on smoking breaks during working hours, as well as extension of non-smoking areas.
| Photo: DucDigital

Staff at City of Lincoln Council offices face a ban on smoking breaks during working hours, as well as extension of non-smoking areas to include council premises and surrounding areas.

The proposed ban would extend the current ban from council offices to include the car parks at City Hall and Hamilton House.

In conjunction, staff would no longer be permitted to leave the building for a smoking break during the day.

The proposal has been made on the grounds of health concerns and the risk of passive smoking.

The council also has concerns that the sight of individuals congregating within the designated smoking areas does not portray a professional image, is non-productive and is unfair to non-smokers.

Any complaint from an employee about the effects of smoking could result in the employer being sued for any resulting damage.

It has been illegal to smoke in the workplace, enclosed public places, work vehicles, and offices since 2007.

In recognition of the support that the changes may require, the council say arrangements are already in place with the Phoenix NHS Stop Smoking Service.

The proposal has been discussed with the Unions and the suggestion has also been made to provide private smoking facilities.

The report will be considered at the council’s Executive meeting on September 22.