Tobacco.org

HENSTRIDGE: Safely smoking 

Like many other industries and business, Marine Atlantic is jumping on the "ban wagon" and prohibiting smoking onboard their fleet.

Last year puffing on a butt was restricted from the cafeteria and limited to the lounge area only. This year it's only permitted on deck, and for those who can afford a cabin.

Health concerns for other passengers have transpired into non-safety concerns for smoking customers. Imagine a passenger who has had too much to drink walking outside for a cigarette. There is a possibility, that, despite weather conditions at the time, someone could fall overboard and no-one would be the wiser.

Complaints from non-smoking customers who use the lounge service, or just walk by from time-to-time, has brought about the policy change. However, those not wanting to inhale the second-hand smoke can avail of other space.

While Marine Atlantic is striving to make their fleet more enjoyable, safe and health conscious, they may have overlooked one issue - safety is the right of all passengers.

Jump to full article »