The smoking ban will also cover almost all indoor places, like lift lobbies, markets, multi-storey, basement carparks as well as in outdoor areas like playgrounds and exercise areas. -- ST PHOTO: EDWIN KOO
THE short list of public places still open to smokers will shrink even further in January when a nation-wide smoking ban is extended to hotel lobbies and carparks, among other areas.
The ban, part of a drive to stamp out smoking that began nearly four decades ago, comes into effect on Jan 1.
It will include non-airconditioned offices, lift lobbies, multi-storey carparks and anywhere within five metres of the entrances and exits of buildings.
The move is aimed at 'protecting the public from second-hand smoke', said Mr Khoo Seow Poh, director-general of public health with the National Environment Agency (NEA).
He said the drive is part of a global initiative by the World Health Organisation (WHO), which has urged governments to push for smoke-free work places and public places.
Singapore is among close to 150 countries that have signed the WHO's Framework Convention on Tobacco Control. The Republic already meets its mandatory requirements, including a ban on tobacco advertising and health warnings on cigarettes.
Other places that have stubbed out smoking in public include Ireland, Sweden, Britain, India and Hong Kong.
In Singapore, smoking is already banned in all nightspots, hawker centres, restaurants and community clubs, among other places.
Casinos in the upcoming integrated resorts in Sentosa and Marina Bay have been exempted from the ban, though operators will have to draw up 'house rules' to protect non-smokers, the NEA said.
Any smoker who ignores the ban can be fined a maximum of $1,000. Operators who fail to advise their patrons against lighting up can also be fined.
