From today, Poland joins the growing list of countries where smoking is banned in restaurants, clubs, pubs and bars.

Under the new rules, restaurant owners may allocate a separate room for smokers though it must be tightly sealed and well ventilated.

Magdalena Petryniak, one of the leaders of the anti-smoking campaign in Krakow told Polish Radio, however, that due to the expense of having to provide facilities for smokers, few establishments will take up this option.

Poland joins 10 other EU countries which have introduced a similar ban. Lighting up at bus stops and children’s playgrounds is also forbidden.

Institutions which fail to comply with the ban face a 2,000 zloty fine (500 euros) for a first offence. (pg)

Related stories
Smoking ban to give breath of fresh air, thenews.pl, 10 Nov