Evaluating a County Ordinance for Second Hand Smoke

Audience: Health educators, advocates, and those participants interested in tobacco policy evaluations. Key Points: Although population-based data show declining SHS exposure in the U.S. overall, SHS exposure remains a major public health concern that is entirely preventable. Because requiring smoke-free environments is the most effective method for reducing SHS exposure in public places, Healthy People 2020 Objective TU-13 encourages all states and the District of Columbia to establish and to enforce smoke-free air laws in public places and worksites. A Midwestern county enacted a county ordinance that expanded an existing ordinance to ban smoking in all public spaces, include all bars. The air quality was assessed in 10 indoor locations in the county prior to the enactment of the ordinance and a follow-up measure occurred three months later. The concentration of fine particle air pollution, PM2.5, was measured. A minimum of 30 minutes was spent in each venue. The number of people and number of burning cigarettes were recorded every 15 minutes. Room dimensions were also measured using a combination of techniques. Pre- and post-law PM2.5 values were compared using a paired samples t-test. PM2.5 concentrations were log-transformed to achieve normality and homogeneity of variances. Results indicate a significant decline in the concentration of fine particle air pollution in all venues. The implementation of comprehensive SHS ordinances can have an immediate impact on public health. Educational Experience: Lecture /discussion of the finding and their implications for advocacy Benefits: The sessions will provide advocates with evidence of policy effectiveness.