The Control of Smoking: Smoking Rate in Designated Smoking and No-Smoking Areas

Unobtrusive measurements were taken over a 5-day period at three hospital areas designated as smoking permitted and three designated as no-smoking. A surprisingly high degree of compliance was observed in the no-smoking areas. Of particular significance is the absence of any reported patient complaints or criticisms in regard to the controlled-smoking policy. The practical advantages of a comprehensive, hospital-wide sign program designating smoking and no-smoking areas are discussed.