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May 31 is World No Tobacco Day as recognized by the World Health Organization.
Regina (1 June 2009) - A comprehensive ban on smoking in private workplaces in Saskatchewan came into force on May 31, the day recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) as World No Tobacco Day.
Amendments to the province's workplace safety rules took effect Saturday, making it illegal to light up in bars, restaurants, curling rinks and other indoor public places.
Smoking has long been forbidden in government-owned facilities but private offices, warehouses and other workplaces such as vehicles have not been covered - until now.
The ban exempts outdoor workplaces and certain other job sites such as casinios and buildings on reserve lands controlled by First Nations. Self-employed businesses are also exempt along with several other workplaces, such as underground mine job sites located more than 10 metres from other workers. Certain designated smoking rooms in long-term care homes will also be exempt.
Workers who violate the ban will have their cases raised with bosses or occupational health and safety committees. Fines can be imposed.
"Our government believes in taking steps to protect the health and safety of Saskatchewan people," says Labour Minister Rob Norris. "The new smoking ban means workers will not be exposed to second-hand smoke in enclosed workplaces."
The worldwide theme of World No Tobacco Day 2009 is Tobacco Health Warnings. The emphasis is being placed on picture warnings that have been shown to be particularly effective at making people aware of the health risks of tobacco use and convincing them to quit.
WHO says more and more countries are fighting back against tobacco addiction by requiring that packages of tobacco show the dangers of the product's use, as called for in guidelines to the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control.
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The National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE) is one of Canada's largest labour organizations with over 340,000 members. Our mission is to improve the lives of working families and to build a stronger Canada by ensuring our common wealth is used for the common good. NUPGE
More information:
World No Tobacco Day - The World Health Organization