BANGALORE: IT smokers are soon going to face a tough time as the Karnataka's IT, BT and ITeS companies are now forced to obey the law probation of smoking in public places. Recently, the department of information technology, biotechnology and science and technology issued a notice to around five associations of IT industries in the state, reports ET. 

According to Section 4 of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act 2003 (COTPA), smoking is prohibited in all public spaces across India for the protection of passive smokers.

The Circular followed the recent discussion between Public Health Institute and the department. The five associations include India Electronics and Semiconductor Association, Visual Effects, Animation, Games and Comics (ABAI), The National Association of Software and Services Companies (Nasscom), Association of Biotechnology Led Enterprises and the Manufacturing IT (MAIT) that is involved with hardware, hardware design and R&D.

IT-BT principal secretary V Manjula on reading the circular said, “IT is an important sector in Karnataka with thousands of companies and lakhs of workers who might be vulnerable to passive smoking. This would also persuade smokers to quit and adopt healthier lifestyles while protecting passive smokers.” It also encourages companies adopt tobacco-control initiatives in the CSR budget in an attempt to make workplace a better place.

Circular cited

-All offices are requested to place signage according to COTPA specifications.
-All floor, entrance, and staircases to lifts must have smoking prohibiting boards in public places.
-Companies should take measures like adopting self-help groups to support employees and encourage them to quit smoking.
-Spreading awareness on the hazards of smoking through talks, monthly newsletter, staff awareness day, flash mobs, etc.

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