The 13th World Conference on Tobacco OR Health

Objective: Since 2004, the Hong Kong Government is introducing legislative amendment to ban smoking in all indoor workplaces and to protect all workers from second-hand smoke. Hong Kong is a cosmopolitan city where some corporate had already implemented smoke-free workplace policy, their experiences can be highlighted as an example to the local business sector, before the legislation took effect. The Hong Kong Council on Smoking and Health, a statutory organization for tobacco control advocacy, organized a recognition scheme “Smoke-free Workplace Leading Company Awards” in 2004 to build business community support for legislation, thus pave the way to ensure an effective and enforceable Bill will be passed in the Legislative Council.

Methods: Corporate that had established smoke-free workplace policies were encouraged to enroll for this recognition scheme. Entries were judged on the criteria based on (1) implementation and promotion of smoke free workplace policies; and (2) support for staff to strive for a smoke-free culture. A prize presentation ceremony was held, where different categories of awards were presented.

To facilitate the Programme, the Council had developed a range of information, education & communication materials and media were widely engaged throughout the campaign.

Results: Over 100 corporate participated in this recognition scheme. A brochure which covered the best practices of the awarded corporate was published with over 130,000 copies and distributed to the business sector and the public. A recognition scheme is a useful tool in advocating the smoke-free workplace policy in the business community and establishing a favourable legislative climate for tobacco control.