Smoking ban in bars, nightclubs in force

A smoking ban in bars, nightclubs, saunas and massage parlors came into force as the New Year began. By 6am on January 1, a total of 27 people were caught breaching the law, authorities revealed.
A joint operation by the Tobacco Control Office, Health Bureau and the Public Security Police Force found 27 people smoking in prohibited areas following inspections of 25 venues. 18 were Macau residents, six were tourists and three were non-resident workers, the authorities stated.
The Tobacco Control Office has revealed that if it finds multiple violations within the same venue, the place will be added to a watch list and subject to close monitoring.
The new tobacco ban is aimed at bars, nightclubs, saunas and massage parlors where smoking is now banned. Offenders are required to pay a MOP400 fine.
The Health Bureau recalled that managers of bars, nightclubs and other venues where smoking is now prohibited, should request clients smoking to put out their cigarettes. If they do not comply, managers should contact authorities. Meanwhile, venues should also post ‘no smoking’ signs to remind clients that smoking is now prohibited.
There are currently 50 tobacco control inspectors, TDM News reported. The office said that 40 new inspectors will join the team in the beginning of this year. CP