FROM Friday, smokers who light up in an enclosed public place outside designated smoking areas are liable for a fine of at least R200, according to harsh new tobacco regulations published in the Government Gazette. The new laws, which are effective immediately, also ban all tobacco advertising and sponsorships, and make the sale of tobacco products to children under 16 illegal. All enclosed public places, including workplaces, will have to have designated smoking areas by January 1 next year. Among the public places where smoking is restricted to specific areas are airports, trains (where certain carriages could be designated), workplaces, government buildings, classrooms and restaurants. Any signs indicating where tobacco is sold should include a warning about the danger of smoking and the number of a quit helpline. Obligatory reduction of harmful substances in tobacco products will start in December 2001, when the tar content per cigarette will be legally limited to 15mg and the nicotine content to 1,5mg.
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