Tough smoking enforcement launched at hospital (From Dudley News)

Tough smoking enforcement launched at hospital

9:00am Saturday 2nd June 2012 in News

SMOKERS who do not use the designated shelters at Russells Hall Hospital could face fines under tough enforcement action announced by The Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust.

Any patient or visitor who refuses to use the shelter may receive a penalty notice or could be removed from the hospital site, under the Trust’s smoke free policy, while any staff member caught flouting the new rules may face disciplinary action.

Richard Beeken, Director of Operations and Transformation, said: “We operate a smoke free policy which means smoking is not permitted in the buildings or grounds and we would urge everyone to observe this policy or risk action being taken against them.

“We receive countless complaints about people who smoke in the grounds of the hospitals, particularly at the main entrance to Russells Hall Hospital. It really isn’t acceptable when smoking shelters have been provided and are clearly marked.”

New signs have also been attached to each smoking shelter to ensure they are clearly visible from the hospital entrance, while advice flyers are being handed out to patients and visitors reminding them of the smoking rules.