Facts
- Restaurant and bar workers have the lowest
level of protection against secondhand smoke, a deadly
pollutant that contains over 4,000 chemicals and at least
69 carcinogens.
- Employees of restaurants are exposed to secondhand smoke
levels 160 to 200% higher than those employed in typical
office workplaces while bar employees are exposed to
secondhand smoke levels at least three times higher than
restaurant workers.
- Restaurant and bar workers are at least 50% more likely
to die of lung cancer than employees in other fields.
- While workers in other industries receive protection
against secondhand smoke, restaurant and bar workers in
most states and municipalities do not.
Myths
Contrary to the claims of those who oppose equal protection for restaurant and bar workers:
- Smoke-free laws and policies do not cause restaurants to
lose business.
- Ventilation systems do not adequately protect workers and
patrons from secondhand smoke.
- And, the free market approach does not offer a fair
solution for the food service industry.