ASH Scotland supports new legislation providing 15-metre smoke-free perimeter outside NHS Grampian hospital buildings

New legislation which prohibits smoking within a 15 metre radius of NHS Grampian hospital buildings is being welcomed by the health charity ASH Scotland.

The Prohibition Of Smoking Outside Hospital Buildings (Scotland) Regulations 2022, coming into effect today (September 5), is being introduced to protect non-smokers from the harm of second-hand tobacco smoke, particularly within NHS healthcare settings, and to ensure the NHS in Scotland is an exemplar in the promotion of good public health.

Chief executive of health charity ASH Scotland Sheila Duffy said: “Extending current legislation to include outdoor areas in Grampian will have the positive impact of protecting people from the harmful effects of breathing in toxic tobacco smoke through vents, windows or doorways while they are being treated and recovering in hospital.

“We urge people who smoke or vape to be considerate in remaining outside the 15-metre perimeter, ensuring hospital patients do not face unnecessary additional risks to their health caused by inhaling harmful substances.

"This is particularly important as Scotland challenges the normalisation of using tobacco and related products on our journey towards becoming tobacco-free.”

ASH Scotland encourages people aiming to quit smoking to call Quit Your Way Scotland on 0800 84 84 84.

Alternatively support is available via their GP, local stop smoking service or community pharmacy for free person-centred support.

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