The short-term impact of national smoke-free workplace legislation on passive smoking and tobacco use

Objectives, This study sought to evaluate the short-term impact of national smoke-free workplace legislation on employee exposure to environmental tob acco smoke at work and on employee smoking habits. Methods, We performed 2 cross-sectional studies in 9 medium-sized and large Finnish workplaces, before and after implementation of national smoke-free workplace legislation. We assessed tobacco smoke exposure via questionnair e and indoor air nicotine measurements. Results. Exposure to environmental tobacco smoke declined considerably afte r the legislation was implemented. Tobacco consumption among smokers dimini shed, Nicotine concentrations fell significantly. Conclusions. Legislation was more efficient than voluntary workplace-specif ic smoking restrictions in reducing passive smoking and cigarette consumpti on.