Tobacco

The Health Protection Unit provides a range of health protection and advisory services relating to the Smokefree Environment Act 1990 and the important health issues of harm caused by tobacco smoke. These services are components of a comprehensive and integrated Smokefree/Tobacco Control programme that includes:

Statutory/regulatory role under the Smokefree Environments Act 1990:

The Health Protection Unit has a designated smokefree officer who carries out regulatory duties on behalf of the Ministry of Health. This includes:

controlled purchase operations (CPOs) to identify retailers selling tobacco products to underage person/s inspections of restaurants and workplaces to check for Smokefree compliance assisting organizations and individuals with issues around the SFE Act 1990 ranging from development of Smokefree workplace policies and any breaches of the SFE Act 1990.

Surveillance and monitoring

The Health Protection Unit is actively involved in the monitoring of tobacco and Smokefree related issues such as CPOs, premises inspections, etc.

Complaints

The Health Protection Unit is a point of contact for information or complaints pertaining to tobacco or Smokefree related issues. This information is investigated or referred on to other agencies as appropriate.

Smokefree resource development

The Health Protection Unit will develop appropriate resources to assist with future controlled purchase operations. These resources are intended for retailers as a reminder of their obligation under the SFE Act 1990.

Working alongside non-government organizations, Maori providers, health promotion advisors, education institutes, sporting clubs & individuals

The Health Protection Unit strongly advocates for smokefree environments and will work alongside various organization with the development of the act. This ranges from workplace policies, club policies, health day’s, sports days, cultural events and the Waikato stadium. It also includes working closely with licensee and managers of restaurants/bars to provide adequate Smokefree areas in these facilities were possible.

Sponsorship liaison

The Health Protection Unit will liaise with various organizations/services and individuals to seek sponsorship from appropriate stakeholders (i.e. Health Sponsorship Council) in relation to Smokefree promotions and events.

Smokefree resource development

The Health Protection Unit will develop appropriate resources to assist with future controlled purchase operations. These resources are intended for retailers as a reminder of their obligation under the SFE Act 1990.

Presentations/advice

The Health Protection Unit is involved in the preparation of policy advice with regards to the Smokefree Environments Act and Tobacco Contract. The Unit will also provide training and seminars to services around current development in relation to Smokefree both nationally and internationally. The services delivered are developed appropriately and to meet the needs of the various communities.

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