Pub workers asked to sign second-hand smoke register

Pub workers who have been exposed to second-hand smoke are being asked to sign a register in preparation for potential legal claims.

The register - launched by the GMB trade union in association with the TUC, union law firm Thomsons and anti-smoke organisation Fresh - could help employees make future personal injury claims against licensees or pubcos.

Employees working in the North East are being targeted with a leaflet designed in the shape of a gas mask which aims to educate workers on the dangers of second-hand smoke.

Thompsons' respiratory legal specialist Helen Jones, said: "Employers have a duty to protect their staff from risks to health and safety.

"Employers who expose staff to second-hand smoke are potentially in a position whereby employees who become ill as a result of that exposure can make a personal injury claim.

"It is very simple, under the Health & Safety at Work Act, employers have a duty to protect their staff from risks to their health and safety."

Jim Marshall, GMB regional health and safety officer, added: "Many workplaces have banned smoking but it's clear that many workers - especially those in the hospitality trade - are still suffering exposure to a well-known killer.

"Employees need to understand that if they are exposed to harmful chemicals and toxins from second-hand smoke whilst at work, their health could be seriously damaged.

"This is why we are launching a register and we will ask employees throughout the North East to let us know where they work and whether they are exposed to other people's smoke."