Creating a smoke-free environment is a critical public health initiative that continues to gain momentum globally.
The head of Tobacco and Tobacco Products at the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), Madam Jemima Odonkor has outlined the importance of enforcing smoke-free environments, the legal frameworks supporting this initiative, and the implications for public health and businesses.
Madam Odonkor began by explaining the rationale behind the campaign for smoke-free environments.
“The smoke-free policies are laws that enforce a smoke-free environment, and these laws are enshrined in the Public Health Act 2012, Act 851.’’
Madam Jemima Odonkor Head of Tobacco and Tobacco Products (FDA)
These laws, particularly in Part 6, which covers tobacco control measures, are crucial for protecting public health by banning smoking in public places.
Madam Odonkor highlighted the specific legal provisions: “Section 58 bans smoking in public places,” she explained.
The law defines public places as any area of collective use, including restaurants, pubs, and even transport terminals. This broad definition ensures comprehensive coverage and protection against secondhand smoke.
To enforce these policies, the FDA conducts extensive sensitization and regular monitoring activities. She stated; “We visit public facilities such as restaurants, pubs, and transport terminals to ensure compliance.”
She emphasized the requirement for facilities to post ‘no smoking’ signage as a visible reminder of the law. She added;
“We carry out a lot of public education to help people understand the need for a clean environment devoid of smoke from tobacco burning and Tabacco products.’’
Madam Jemima Odonkor Head of Tobacco and Tobacco Products (FDA)
Addressing the scope of tobacco products under regulation, Madam Odonkor clarified that Tobacco includes cigarettes, cigars, and shisha, which is often mistakenly not considered a tobacco product.
She stressed that all these products fall under the same regulatory framework, and their improper use, such as smoking outside designated areas, constitutes a legal violation.
One of the most compelling arguments for smoke-free environments is the danger of secondhand smoke. She added that someone might smoke when they are in their private space or vehicle, however, immediately after another person joins them in the vehicle, that space becomes a public domain thus smoking becomes illegal at that very moment. She explained;
“Secondhand smoking is the smoke from the burning end of tobacco [products], as well as the smoke that is puffed out from the smoker into the environment.”
Madam Jemima Odonkor Head of Tobacco and Tobacco Products (FDA)
She cited research showing that the toxicants in secondhand smoke are as harmful as those inhaled directly, making non-smokers in the vicinity vulnerable to serious health risks.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Regarding enforcement, Madam Odonkor outlined the penalties for non-compliance. She reiterated;
“You can be administratively charged for not complying with the regulation as it is enshrined in the law. You can have your facility closed down due to the gravity of the situation especially when found out that you are putting the lives of children at risk. Also, in cases where you are not complying with any of the sanctions imposed, we can process you for prosecution. ’’
Madam Jemima Odonkor Head of Tobacco and Tobacco Products (FDA)
To facilitate enforcement, the FDA has established channels for public reporting of non-compliance. She informed;
“We’ve offices across the country so if you are close to any of our offices you can go into the offices and lodge complaints. You can also reach us via our WhatsApp line, 0551112225, or 0551112224 or email us at FDA@fda.gov.gh.’’
Madam Jemima Odonkor Head of Tobacco and Tobacco Products (FDA)
This accessibility is designed to empower the public to play an active role in maintaining smoke-free environments.
Addressing concerns about the potential impact on businesses, Madam Odonkor reassured that enforcing smoke-free policies could be beneficial. She explained;
“Research shows that only about 5% of the population smokes. So, enforcing the smoke -free policies rather would boost your business in a more positive way.”
Madam Jemima Odonkor Head of Tobacco and Tobacco Products (FDA)
This perspective shifts the narrative, framing smoke-free environments as a business advantage rather than a limitation.
Madam Jemima Odonkor’s insights underscore the importance of smoke-free environments for public health and community well-being.
By enforcing the Public Health Act and engaging in public education, the FDA aims to protect individuals from the harmful effects of secondhand smoke.
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