Background: The 2003 Smokefree Environments Amendment Act was broadly successful at reducing exposure to secondhand smoke (SHS) in indoor workplaces. However, smoking is still permitted in mainly private settings (such as homes and cars), and in outdoor public places and workplaces. This presentation will explore the policy options for further regulation or legislation in three settings – private cars, public playgrounds for children, and semi-enclosed outdoor areas in the hospitality industry.

We will present relevant SHS hazard data (for cars and outdoor settings) from recent air quality research in New Zealand. These data, obtained using portable air quality monitors, shows that fine particulate levels are high in cars (even with windows open), moderately high in semi-enclosed areas with high smoker occupancy, but similar to background where occupancy by smokers is low. Then we will describe the possible frameworks for analysis and pros and cons of legislative and non-legislative action in these settings. This will include describing the rapidly evolving experience of introducing legislation on these issues from around the world.

Discussion: Following the presentation of the evidence and issues, we will engage with the audience to explore the key public health, ethical, and political arguments. For example, whether the case for legislation and regulation should only include consideration of the health of non-smokers consequent to SHS exposure, or should also consider issues of modelling unhealthy behaviours, economic impacts (damage to clothing/furnishings) and nuisance impacts.

Conclusion: We will collectively identify the most effective and achievable policy options for the New Zealand setting.