Smoking shelters
Contents |
[edit] Introduction
Smoke-free legislation was introduced in phases during 2006 and 2007, which banned smoking in nearly all indoor environments (including workplaces and public spaces) across the UK
Scotland introduced the Prohibition of Smoking in Certain Premises (Scotland) Regulations 2006 on 26 March 2006. England passed The Smoke-free (Premises and Enforcement) Regulations 2006 on 1 July 2007. Wales followed suit under the Smoke Free Premises etc. (Wales) Regulations 2007, which became effective on 2 April 2007.
In conjunction with the ban, all indoor smoking areas or break rooms were banned, and smokers were required to go outside to smoke. E-cigarettes were not included under the bans.
[edit] The introduction of smoking shelters
While employers are not required by law to provide smoking shelters for employees, some have taken it upon themselves to provide them. However, these structures must also comply with the Smoke Free regulations and follow local rules (for issues such as noise, licensing and so on). Smoking shelters require planning permission from local authorities.
[edit] Building regulations
Small smoking shelters do not typically require building regulations approval unless the floor area is greater than 15m² and the shelter is located within one metre of a boundary. Large shelters (those over 30m²) generally will require building regulations approval.
Smoking shelters became a common sight following the indoor smoking bans in the UK. Many workplaces now having little shelters like this, where workers can gather. |
Smoking shelters cannot be enclosed by doors, walls, windows or other structures that enclose more than 50% of the structure. This 50% rule also applies to shelters built with one open side against a wall or fence.
[edit] Location
Due to the open nature of these buildings, their location is important and should take into consideration:
- Noise. If many people gather at one time in the shelter, the noise could be disruptive to adjacent properties.
- Light. There is a chance the shelter will be used in the evenings, which means it will require lighting. This could also be considered a nuisance to neighbouring properties.
- Safety. While the shelter should be properly situated away from other structures, it should not be in a location where people could be put at risk (such as in a car park).
- Ventilation. The location of the shelter should be placed far enough away from nearby buildings so smoke will not enter through windows or ventilation systems.
- Brand. Smoking shelters can create a negative impression of an organisation if they are highly visible or next to main entrances.
[edit] Structural options
There are some smoking shelter options that may not require planning approval. These include lightweight gazebos or jumbrellas (or giant parasols). These structures must be sufficiently safe (they should be made from suitable fire resistant material) and structurally sound.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
- External works.
- Joint fire code.
- National Health Service Act of 2006.
- Pre-construction information.
- Shelter.
- Site rules for construction site.
- Types of building.
[edit] External resources
Featured articles and news
ECA 2024 Apprentice of the Year Award
Entries open for submission until May 31.
UK gov apprenticeship funding from April 2024
Brief summary the policy paper updated in March.
For the World Autism Awareness Month of April.
70+ experts appointed to public sector fire safety framework
The Fire Safety (FS2) Framework from LHC Procurement.
Project and programme management codes of practice
CIOB publications for built environment professionals.
The ECA Industry Awards 2024 now open !
Recognising the best in the electrotechnical industry.
Sustainable development concepts decade by decade.
The regenerative structural engineer
A call for design that will repair the natural world.
Buildings that mimic the restorative aspects found in nature.
CIAT publishes Principal Designer Competency Framework
For those considering applying for registration as a PD.
BSRIA Building Reg's guidance: The second staircase
An overview focusing on aspects which most affect the building services industry.
Design codes and pattern books
Harmonious proportions and golden sections.
Introducing or next Guest Editor Arun Baybars
Practising architect and design panel review member.
Quick summary by size, shape, test, material, use or bonding..