The smoking ban at bars, clubs, nightclubs, bathhouses, and massage and mahjong premises will take effect July 1.

The Department of Health called for venue management co-operation in providing a smoke-free environment for their staff and customers, noting they are empowered to implement the smoking ban. They are authorised to require anyone to stop smoking in no-smoking areas and can request those refusing to produce their identity and address for follow-up action, or ask them to leave.

The ban has already been implemented in all indoor areas of workplaces, public places, restaurants, bars and karaoke lounges since 2007. The arrangement can further protect the public from exposure to second-hand smoke.

The public should be considerate and co-operate with venue managers. Up to May 31 the Tobacco Control Office had issued 13,800 summonses to people smoking in no-smoking areas.

Smoke-free ambassadors have been visiting establishments to promulgate the smoke-free message and disseminate leaflets, posters, stickers and implementation guidelines.