Smoking Ban Could Increase Fire Risk

by Gill Montia

Story link: Smoking Ban Could Increase Fire Risk

According to the Norwich Union, the ban on smoking in enclosed public spaces could increase the risk of fire. The company is concerned that smokers gathering outside buildings from July 1, when the new measures come into force, could unwittingly ignite nearby storage areas such as those used to store waste or combustible materials. In addition, there is the strong possibility that the ban will be flouted and this could lead to people hiding away their activity inside buildings and leaving behind unextinguished cigarette ends.

The insurance company is advising that the introduction of the ban will create a need for the ongoing management of the needs of smokers. It suggests that businesses should provide a safe area in which smokers can shelter and that they should be provided with a bin for cigarette butts, which is regularly emptied.

The warning by the Norwich Union is supported by guidelines from IOSH’s Fire Risk Management Group, which shares concerns that employees will go out for a crafty cigarette in areas where there is rubbish or litter. Businesses are not required to provide a purpose built shelter but adequate areas must be allocated for persons who wish to smoke.