Peru bans smoking in public buildings

Lima, Jan 16 (IANS/EFE) Peru has banned smoking in all public buildings, according to a decree published in the official gazette.

The executive order, which was signed by President Alan Garcia, toughens previous restrictions on smokers and increases penalties for offenders.

Selling tobacco to minors or not observing the ban on smoking in the workplace could lead to cancellation of commercial license or closure of an establishment.

Public facilities must display posters that say “Environment 100-percent free of tobacco smoke” and “Smoking in public places is forbidden”.

The places also include work vehicles, such as passenger transport, and cafeterias, corridors, elevators, lobbies and dining rooms.

–IANS/EFE