15 - Premises reminded to think about the neighbours

 

Following the introduction of legislation to make the nation smoke free last year, many pubs, clubs and restaurants and workplaces premises have installed facilities for smokers, such as outdoor shelters.

 

Almost a year after the new legislation came in, and with summer approaching, Dudley Council is reminding them to monitor the noise levels from their customers using the shelters so as not to disturb their neighbours.

 

 

“A number of premises have installed smoking shelters since the new smoke free legislation came in and it is important they do not lead to noise problems for residents living nearby.

 

“There are restrictions we apply to smoking shelters concerning noise. We usually specify that shelters can’t be wired up to a sound system, the doors leading back into a bar or onto a dance floor are self closing to reduce sound escaping and interconnecting windows are kept closed.”

 

The new smoke free law was introduced to reduce people’s exposure to second hand smoke. 

 

Dudley council’s environmental health officers have been making extra checks in venues which were previously traditional smoking haunts and have found high levels of co-operation from licensees in enforcing the law.  

 

During Noise Action Week activities take place across the country to inform people about noise, the impact it has on those in the neighbourhood and how to reduce it.  

 

Anyone in Dudley borough experiencing noise from a pub garden or outdoor smoking shelter can phone the council on 01384 814685 for help and advice.