The implementation of a national anti-smoking policy in New Zealand was a success due to the promotion of the policy among the public and key stakeholders. This resulted in a decrease in the prevalence of smoking by sex and age group. Smoke-free environmental policies limit or eliminate the use of smoke-producing tobacco in designated areas, reducing second-hand smoke. On a university campus in the U.
S., a targeted poster campaign to encourage students not to smoke in smoke-free areas was linked to a significant decrease in the number of cigarettes smoked on campus. It is legal to have an anti-smoking policy on multi-unit homeownership, as there is no legal or constitutional right to smoke. A study conducted in Scotland found socio-economic differences in passive exposure to tobacco smoke following the introduction of anti-smoking legislation. This review examines documents that report on the implementation of anti-smoking policies and enforcement strategies used to increase smokers' compliance with the policy. Lack of knowledge of the current anti-smoking policy, being a smoker, and having access to physical structures that facilitate smoking were associated with lower levels of compliance. The implementation of an anti-smoking policy led to a significant decrease in the number of smokers in non-smoking areas and a higher proportion of smokers moving from areas that did not meet the standards to those that met the regulations.
In San Juan, Puerto Rico, a smoke-free workplace policy was linked to reduced exposure to second-hand smoke in restaurants, bars, and nightclubs. This review of literature on enforcement strategies for effective compliance and enforcement of anti-smoking policy found a limited and weak evidence base. In New Zealand, mass media was an important part of the implementation strategy, as it was associated with changes in national anti-smoking legislation. Print and radio advertising across the country (including Maori versions), brochures and posters, a helpline with information, and a website on anti-smoking legislation were used to publicize the legislation, leading to greater compliance. In two independent studies conducted in the U.
S., mailings were used to send local businesses information about changes or enforcement of an anti-smoking law and how to comply with it. This article has explored how businesses have responded to enforcement of the smoke free law in Ellisville Mississippi since its implementation. It is evident that effective implementation strategies are necessary for successful enforcement of anti-smoking policies. Mass media campaigns, targeted poster campaigns, mailings, and websites are all effective methods for increasing public awareness and compliance with anti-smoking laws.
