Tobacco control law compliance: A case study of officers at southern route public bus terminal, Thailand

Abstract

This research was a cross-sectional survey research design. The objective was to study tobacco control law compliance of employees at the southern route bus terminal. Data collected on perception and knowledge of tobacco control law compliance, attitude on tobacco smoking, and opinion on number of ashtrays, No Smoking signs, and selling of tobacco in convenient stores, were analyzed. Samples recruited were 157 service staff of Southern Route Bus Terminal.  Data were collected by questionnaires and analyzed by descriptive statistics, percentage, mean and standard deviation.

            The results showed that staff’s compliance with tobacco control laws was at a moderate level, with a high level of tobacco control law’s perception and knowledge.  Service staff had a good attitude for smoking control. with a low level of opinion on having ashtray, while having the highest level of opinion on No Smoking signs. Service staff had a moderate level of opinion on both selling of cigarettes in convenient stores, and a smoke-free Southern Bus Terminal.

Recommendations are, promoting of tobacco control law compliance, through policy communication to staff, and indicating a clear guideline in case of violations.  Also, promoting of a good relationship between staff and management,  in order to find an agreeable solution to make the Southern Route Bus Terminal 100% smoke-free area.