Smoking Is Strictly Prohibited On This Site Sign

No smoking signs are a legal requirement in the UK under the Health Act 2006 and Smoke-Free (Signs) Regulations 2012. They help enforce smoke-free environments, protect employees and visitors from second-hand smoke, and ensure compliance with the law. Displaying these signs demonstrates your commitment to health and safety.

No smoking signs help:

• Reduce fire risks by discouraging smoking in hazardous areas.
• Protect employees and visitors from second-hand smoke.
• Ensure compliance with legal smoke-free requirements.
• Create a healthier and safer environment for everyone.

No smoking signs in the UK must feature the international no-smoking symbol (a lit cigarette within a red circle and diagonal line) and text that states, for example, "No Smoking" in a clear font.

No smoking signs are legally required to be displayed at all entrances to smoke-free premises and vehicles under the Health Act 2006 and Smoke-Free (Signs) Regulations 2012. These signs must be clearly visible to anyone entering the space, ensuring that individuals are aware of the smoke-free status of the premises or vehicle.

Specific Locations for No Smoking Signs

Workplaces:

Offices, factories, warehouses, and other indoor workplaces.

Break rooms or rest areas where smoking is prohibited.

Public Buildings

Hospitals, schools, libraries, and community centres.

Entertainment venues, such as cinemas, theatres, and museums.

Entrances and Exits

All main and side entrances to smoke-free premises.

Emergency exits if they are also commonly used for entry.

Business Vehicles

Company cars, vans, or lorries used by more than one person.

Public transportation, such as taxis, buses, and trains, where smoking is prohibited.

Outdoor Areas

Specific outdoor spaces designated as smoke-free, such as near playgrounds, hospitals, or in some local authority areas.

Courtyards or garden spaces of smoke-free premises, depending on company policy.

Why is Proper Placement Important?

• Visibility: Signs should be placed at eye level and in well-lit areas to ensure they are easily seen.
• Compliance: Displaying signs in the correct locations ensures your business complies with legal requirements and avoids potential fines.
• Awareness: Clear signage prevents confusion for employees, visitors, and the public, reinforcing the smoke-free status of the premises or vehicle.

Additional Considerations

• Customised Messaging: You may choose to display additional messaging, such as "No Smoking or Vaping," to include electronic cigarettes in your policy.
• Material Durability: For outdoor signs, ensure they are made from weather-resistant materials like composite aluminium or recycled plastic.

By ensuring no smoking signs are displayed correctly, you promote compliance with the law and support a healthier, safer environment for everyone. Explore compliant and durable no smoking signs at The Sign Shed.

Vaping is not covered under the same legislation as smoking, but businesses can enforce their own policies. Custom no smoking signs, such as "No Smoking or Vaping," help clarify your policy to employees and visitors.

Choosing the Right Sign Material: A Guide by The Sign Shed

At The Sign Shed, all our signs are proudly manufactured in Yorkshire, adhering to the highest standards of quality and sustainability. Here’s a breakdown of the materials we offer to help you select the best option for your needs:

1. Self-Adhesive Vinyl Stickers

• Best for: Indoor use only.
• Material: Durable, flexible Metamark digital vinyl with adhesive backing.
• Application: Apply to flat, smooth, clean, and non-porous surfaces. Not suitable for wood, brick, or stone.
• Notes: Not recommended for surfaces painted with washable, "wipe-clean" paints like Dulux Easycare. For large stickers (A4+), professional application is advised.

2. Floor Stickers

• Best for: Indoor floors with light texture (e.g., carpet tiles).
• Material: Anti-slip Grafityp Textured Floor Vinyl.
• Lifespan: Several years.
• Notes: Not suitable for outdoor use or carpets.

3. Rigid Plastic Signs

• Best for: Indoor and outdoor general safety signage.
• Material: Lightweight, durable, 1mm thick rigid plastic.
• Features: Waterproof, can be pre-drilled for fixing.

4. Recyclable Plastic Signs (Bubble Board)

• Best for: Indoor and outdoor use requiring environmentally friendly options.
• Material: 100% recyclable polypropylene with a smooth, flute-free surface.
• Features: UV-treated, weather-resistant, scratch-resistant, and fire-retardant.

5. Recycled Plastic Signs (Palboard)

• Best for: Eco-conscious indoor and outdoor signage.
• Material: 50% recycled plastic with a lightweight PVC foam core.
• Features: Waterproof, recyclable, and excellent for printing.

6. Composite Aluminium Signs (Dibond)

• Best for: Long-term outdoor use in high-wind or harsh weather conditions.
• Material: Two thin aluminium sheets bonded to a polyethylene core.
• Features: Rust-proof, weather-resistant, lightweight, and durable. Pre-drilled holes available upon request.
• Environmental Benefits: 80% recycled material, 100% recyclable.

7. Photoluminescent PVC Signs

• Best for: Emergency signage.
• Material: Glow-in-the-dark PVC compliant with British Standard BS5499-2:1986.
• Features: Charges in daylight and provides visibility in power outages or emergencies.

8. Foamed Plastic Signs (Foamex)

• Best for: Temporary outdoor signage (e.g., construction sites).
• Material: Lightweight, weatherproof foam board with a matte finish.
• Thickness: 3mm.

9. Fluted Polypropylene (Correx)

• Best for: Temporary signage for short-term projects.
• Material: Lightweight and cost-effective.
• Features: Ideal for construction site notices.

10. PVC Banners

• Standard 440gsm PVC Banner
• Premium 510gsm PVC Banner
• 260gsm Mesh Banner

All banners are printed with eco-friendly UV ink and come hemmed and eyeleted, with free cable ties for easy installation.

By offering a variety of materials tailored to different uses, The Sign Shed ensures you’ll find the perfect solution for your signage needs—whether it’s temporary banners, durable outdoor signs, or eco-friendly options. For more information or help choosing the right material, contact us on 01977 220000.

Viewing Distances: How to Ensure Your Signs Are Seen

The visibility of a sign depends on several factors, including the viewing distance, angle, height, lighting conditions, and contrast with the background. Choosing the right size is essential to ensure your sign effectively communicates its message.

General Sizing Guideline

A good rule of thumb is that the height of the letters should be approximately 25mm (1 inch) for every 10 feet of viewing distance. For example:

• A sign with 10-inch letters can typically be read from 100 feet away.

However, this is just a guideline, and other factors, such as lighting or background clutter, may require adjustments.

Tips for Maximising Sign Visibility

To improve the visibility and effectiveness of your sign:

• Use Large, Bold Fonts: Opt for clear, easy-to-read lettering.
• Choose High-Contrast Colours: Ensure the text stands out against the background.
• Place in Well-Lit Areas: Adequate lighting makes signs easier to see.
• Avoid Cluttered Backgrounds: A clean, simple backdrop helps the sign stand out.

Get Expert Advice

If you’re unsure about the size or design of your sign, The Sign Shed can help! Our team is ready to guide you in selecting the perfect size, material, and design to meet your specific requirements. Contact us today for tailored advice.