[The problem of cigarette smoking in the workplace]

European countries take various actions to reduce smoking, including an introduction of appropriate legislation. In Poland, the main piece of legislation is the Act of 9 November 1995 on protection of health against the consequences of tobacco use and their products. Among the places where smoking is prohibited, the document mentions all indoor areas of workplaces, among others. At the same time, the law allows smoking in designated areas. However, since the introduction of an amendment effected more than a year ago, the employer is not legally obliged to create a smoking room. Furthermore, the employer has been empowered to impose even an outright ban on smoking in indoor workplaces and on the company premises. In the event of a breach of this prohibition by the employee, a fine or a penalty for breach of order may be imposed. It is also admissible to offer an incentive for non-smoking employees in the form of bonuses for greater efficiency on the part of workers.