Background: Because of indoor smoking restrictions, most future exposure to SHS will be in public outdoor areas. Debate surrounding outdoor smoking restrictions in locations such as restaurants and licensed venues has focused on whether there is sufficient SHS exposure to be harmful to health. This exploratory study aims to assess the potential magnitude of exposure to SHS when people smoke in outdoor dining areas, and explore the conditions that may influence this level of SHS exposure.

Method: Researchers will visit a convenience sample of 20 semi-enclosed outdoor dining areas. Sitting at tables within one metre of an active smoker, researchers will measure the concentration of particulate pollution of less than 2.5 microns in diameter, using a TSI Personal Aerosol Monitor. Over a period of 30 minutes, observational data will be collected at 10 minute intervals and will include number of patrons, number of lit cigarettes (in the outdoor dining area and within a one meter radius of the monitor), and detailed information about the venue including overhead coverings, size of the outdoor area, wind speed, direction and times at which smokers walk past.

Results: Fieldwork is underway.

Conclusions: This study will be the first to our knowledge to determine whether exposure to SHS in outdoor dining areas has the potential to exceed acceptable levels, and will improve understanding of the conditions that influence this level of exposure.

Implications: This study will guide policy-making about the introduction of measures to protect non-smokers and employees working in outdoor environments where smoking is still allowed.

Presentation not available