Are employers obliged to provide smoking shelters for employees?

Providing a smoke-free workplace has been obligatory for employers under the Smoking (Northern Ireland) Order 2006. There is currently no requirement for outdoor smoking areas to be provided for employees or members of the public, this is at the discretion of the employer. However, should an employer decide to install shelters it must comply with the smoke-free legislation affecting work premises.

For example, the shelter must be designed so that it is not enclosed by more than a roof and half the total area of the walls. Employers should also ensure that any shelters are located so that smoke does not enter smoke free premises, including neighbouring premises, thereby providing non-smoking