AIR launches new guidelines for licensees upgrading ventilation

The Atmosphere Improves Results (AIR) initiative has launched a new information booklet for licensees who are thinking about upgrading ventilation in their premises.

Improved ventilation is one of the recommendations included in the voluntary charter on smoking in pubs which also advises the use of signage and no-smoking areas where appropriate.

The new guide is aimed at preventing licensees being conned into buying substandard equipment by cowboy operators as well as offering advice on the basic requirements.

It also explains the charter recommendations and how licensees can improve business through ventilation as well as answering commonly asked questions.

The charter was agreed by the trade and the Department of Health two years ago. Licensees are being urged to sign up to it to help meet a target of 50 per cent compliance by the end of 2002.

The trade hopes that by self-regulating it will avoid the possibility of tough new legislation on smoking which includes the threat of a complete ban on smoking in pubs.

Initial research has shown that almost two-thirds of pubs hope to be charter compliant by the start of 2003.

For more information on the charter or a copy of the new ventilation guide call AIR on 020 7960 6026 or go to www.airinitiative.com