Red Cross Hospital is going smoke-free from 1 August

The Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital has been declared a smoke-free facility from 1 August 2020. This prohibition is valid for the entire hospital grounds and includes devices used in connection with tobacco products (cigarettes, pipes and hookahs) and/or electronic delivery systems and devices (vaping), and components of those products or systems. Disciplinary processes will be instituted against offenders and they may be additionally liable to be prosecuted and fined under relevant legislation.

‘We would like to inform our patients and their caregivers about this latest development,’ said Dr Matodzi Mukosi, CEO of the Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital.  ‘The harmful effects of smoking tobacco and electronic devices to smokers and others around them is well documented. We are committed to providing a safe area for our young patients and a safe workplace for all staff,’ he continued.

To stop smoking call the National Council Against Smoking (NCAS) QUIT Line at 011 720 3145 or email quit@iafrica.com

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

In terms of Section 6 of the Tobacco Products Control Act, 1993 (Act 83 of 1993) the person in control of a public place or employer in respect of a workplace may totally prohibit smoking on the premises such as childcare facilities and health facilities. 

Section 24(a) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996 (Act 108 of 1996) provides that everyone has the right to an environment that is not harmful to his/her health or well-being.

The Tobacco Products Control Act, 1993 (Act 83 of 1993), as amended by the Tobacco Products Control Amendment, 1999 (Act 12 of 1999), read with Notice R975 of 2000 provides for, among others, the protection of employees and the public from harmful effects of the tobacco smoke in public places, including places of work.

This prohibition includes devices used in connection with tobacco products and/or electronic delivery systems and devices, and components of those products or systems.