The 13th World Conference on Tobacco OR Health

Objective: To identify what drives the trend of smokefree gaming; to provide the requisite tools to policy-makers, workers, the public and the gaming industry.

Methods: Educate decision-makers, the public and the casino industry on the benefits of smokefree casino policies, based on empirical, economic data, public opinion, workers' health issues, and legal implications; share advocacy tools with advocates; track smokefree gaming initiatives in Canada, New Zealand, and the USA, voluntary or mandated by law; and promote public awareness. Science-based methodologies were employed to measure high levels of particulate matter in casinos and other gaming venues.

Results:

Surprisingly, smokefree gaming is promoted not only by the tobacco control community, but within the gaming industry, whether it's a large casino in Montreal, a Native American-run casino in New Mexico, or the local bingo hall. Empirical data evaluated on the Dover Downs racino in the state of Delaware (USA), does not show the economic loss predicted by some in the industry. Science-based experiments showed high measurements of respirable particles in gaming venues that permit smoking, thereby demonstrating harmful exposure to patrons and workers. Casino workers have won or settled lawsuits against their employers in the USA and Great Britain. The research led to a compilation of smokefree gaming venues around the world, and the laws that require smokefree gaming.