Staying the right side of the law!

Since the introduction of the smoking ban in 2007, Smoking Shelters have become a common feature of commercial and industrial sites. In order to comply with the no-smoking legislation, any structure that is used as a Smoking Shelter must not be more than 50% enclosed, not including doors and windows. The AUTOPA open spaces Smoking Shelter is only clad on the top half of the shelter enabling it to comply with the regulations while also protecting smokers from the elements. Where can I install a Smoking Shelter? Where you can install a Smoking Shelter differs from council to council. We have collated the general points below but you will need to check with your local authority for the most up-to-date regulations before you start. Remember, you may need planning permission! Don’t install too close to a wall As a Smoking Shelter must be at least 50% open, positioning the shelter too close to an existing building or structure could render it non-compliant. To ensure against this, all Smoking Shelters must be at least 1.5 metres away from all surrounding buildings. It needs to be accessible for everyone Smoking Shelters must be accessible to everyone, therefore the design and location of the shelter must be able to accommodate wheelchair users. Wheelchair users must also be able to access the shelter easily and safely (i.e. no steps up to the shelter itself). Litterbugs not welcome Bins and ashtrays must be provided in order to accommodate cigarette stubs and packets. We can provide ashtrays that fit onto the frame of the AUTOPA open spaces Smoking Shelter as well as a wide range of other bins as part of our wider product range. Check them out here.

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