Hi, I am trying to introduce some guidance on the measures our people take if they enter a domestic dwelling and the owners / occupiers are smoking? Any ideas or input will be greatly received.

We had that issue when the smoke free legislation came into effect and is I am sure an issue for lots of workers operating in peoples homes. We gave advice that staff may politely ask residents if they could refrain from smoking; in cases where that request might be refused we advise the staff member to discuss with their line manager where we may withdraw or send another worker who may be less affected by the smoke. To be honest though I've not heard of any issues around this subject here, and I would expect most residents understand and accept a polite request.

I turn this around when needing engineers in my home to repair my kitchen appliances, contract with a well known company. I ask that they send a non smoking engineer because the smell of cigarettes on their clothing follows them around and into my kitchen. The telephone operator always agrees but occasionally send a smoker. Its an issue for me 'cos my son suffers Asthma which is worse when in the vicinity of smokers, even when they are not smoking but they have the smell on their clothing. I have to get my kitchen appliances repaired and if I turn away the engineer I will probably have to wait a few days. Smokers never know they smell 'cos they can't smell themselves.

Way down the list of issues in my view as well, Ron but nevertheless, on the list. The wife has just washed and ironed her fathers clothes for his holidays. My kitchen had the aroma of an old fashioned pub vault.

Be on time for your appointment and ask the occupier not to smoke for 15/30 or 60 minutes etc prior to your arrival time. http://www.safetycounts.co.uk/guidance.html SBH