Secondhand smoke exposure in the nonsmoking section: how much protection?

Introduction: Secondhand smoke (SHS) exposure continues to be a problem in bars and restaurants where smoking is permitted. This study measures the relative SHS exposure reduction in nonsmoking sections of establishments that allow some smoking.

Methods: Measurements were conducted simultaneously in the smoking and nonsmoking sections of 14 Minnesota hospitality venues.

Change in indoor particle levels after a smoking ban in Minnesota bars and restaurants.

Background: Smoking bans in bars and restaurants have been shown to improve worker health and reduce hospital admissions for acute myocardial infarction. Several studies have also reported improved indoor air quality, although these studies generally used single visits before and after a ban for a convenience sample of venues.

Purpose: The primary objective of this study was to provide detailed time-of-day and day-of-week secondhand smoke-exposure data for representative bars and restaurants in Minnesota.