Workplace Smoking Rules in Georgia

Employers in Georgia must comply with these state rules regulating smoking in the workplace.

The Georgia Smokefree Air Act of 2005, bans smoking in all public places and in all enclosed areas within places of employment.

Employers covered: Employers with one or more employees.

Written policy requirements. Employer policy not specified.

Posting requirements: Georgia law requires that "No Smoking" signs or the international "No Smoking" symbol be clearly and conspicuously posted by the owner, operator, manager, or other person in control in every public place or place of employment where smoking is prohibited by law.

Smoke free areas: Smoking must be prohibited in all enclosed areas within places of employment, including but not limited to:

• private offices
• common work areas
• hallways
• employee lounges
• cafeterias
• restrooms
• auditoriums
• classrooms
• elevators
• stairs
• other enclosed facilities

Permitted smoking areas: Areas exempt from the smoking prohibition include the following:

• private residences with exceptions
• hotel and motel rooms designated as smoking rooms;certain retail tobacco stores
• long-term care facilities
• outdoor areas of places of employment
• smoking areas designated by an employer