Malta

Updated 7th April 2005

A law came into force on 5th April 2004 prohibiting smoking in certain public places, including hospitals, government departments, schools, sports centres and offices providing public service. Smoking is also prohibited on public transport and on flights, in cinemas, theatres and television studios. From 5th October 2004, bars and restaurants with an area of over 60 square meters had either to become smoke-free, or have a designated smoking room. From 5th April 2005, smoking is prohibited in all enclosed public and private premises that which are open to the public. This includes all premises where food and drink are served. All workspaces are also covered by the regulations, and this includes any adjacent corridor, lobby, stairwell, elevator, lift, cafeteria, washroom or other common area frequented by employees during the course of their employment.

Designated smoking rooms are permitted in any establishment covered by the regulation. Designated smoking rooms must:

be totally separate from areas or rooms normally occupied by non smokers
have walls from floor to ceiling
have all apertures leading onto other closed areas, or rooms, tight fitting, and be kept so closed while the premises are open for business
be clearly marked as being reserved for persons who smoke
be situated so that they do not require non-smokers to pass through them.

Maltese and English versions of the Legal Notice 414 of 2004 are available online at:
http://www.doi.gov.mt/EN/legalnotices/2004/09/LN414.pdf

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