Helping you help your staff: A law against smoking in commercial properties, including offices, pubs, restaurants, night clubs, cafes and bistros will be introduced in England in July 2007. It is already in practice in Wales and Ireland. If business owners fail to comply with the new law they could be punished with fines of up to £2,500 and could be liable to future claims from employees for smoking related ill health.

However, many businesses are worried about increased stress levels amongst staff that can’t go outside to smoke. Furthermore, restaurants and public houses are concerned their front-of-house environments will be crowded with smokers, which will in turn put off potential customers.

By erecting a shade sail or, in the case of smaller business one or more domestic sales, businesses are able to provide the facility for staff to smoke without suffering harm from the UV rays of the sun. Furthermore, by intelligently positioning the shade sail food and drink outlets can create a pleasant environment for smoking customers away from the immediate door area. The positive effects on staff and customer morale are self evident – businesses creating this kind of environment are clearly demonstrating that they care.

You can find out more about shade sails or domestic sails for business use by telephoning 0 1604 674 629 or e-mailing smokingshelters@sun-safe.co.uk.