LONDON: England slams the door on smoking in bars, workplaces and public buildings today in what campaigners hail as the biggest boost to public health since the creation of the National Health Service in 1948.

"Workers have a right to a safe environment and the harm done by tobacco smoke is now known to be significantly dangerous," said director of charity Action on Smoking and Health Deborah Arnott.

The ban means smoking in enclosed public places like pubs will now be banned across the entire UK.

The legislation is designed to protect people from the effects of second-hand smoke at work, which doctors estimate kills more than 600 people a year. The government hopes it will also help smokers quit and discourage children from taking up the habit.

Individuals lighting up against the law face fines of up to £200 (BD151.51) while businesses can be charged up to £1,000 (BD757.57) for failing to display "no smoking" signs.

No smoking signs must displayed wherever the ban applies - which includes minicabs, company cars and churches. Offshore oil rigs, hotel rooms and prison cells are among the few places where public smoking will continue to be permitted.

Not everyone supports the new laws but most are resigned to them.

Richard Lilley, a 37-year-old law firm printer said he did not want to give up smoking because he enjoyed it.

"I won't bother going to the pub, I will drink at home."

Others will sit or stand outside, with many pubs installing rain awnings and patio heaters to accommodate smokers.

In Liverpool the council will distribute 20,000 foil-lined pocket-sized pouches for smokers to put away their used stubs in an attempt to keep pavements clean outside bars and pubs.