By MELISSA MOODY
As more cities in Southern Indiana and Kentucky go smoke-free, Clarksville is becoming an island for smokers and establishments that cater to them.
But a new study conducted by the University of Kentucky College of nursing shows that it may not be in the best interest for Clarksville businesses and residents.
Indoor air pollution was found to be nearly 10 times higher in four Clarksville restaurants and one bar than across the river in comparable eateries that are now smoke-free. The university worked in conjunction with Indiana Tobacco Prevention and Cessation to clear the air about the effects of smoking in Clarksville businesses.
“This study reinforces what we know to be true: Smoking is a source of indoor air pollution and these (smoke-free) ordinances are making the air in restaurants, bars, workplaces and other public places safer for everyone to breathe,” said Karla Sneegas, executive director of ITPC. “This shows that Clarksville workers who are employed in smoky workplaces are at risk. We can show Hoosiers the harmful effects of secondhand smoke in the exact places where they work and play.”
The levels of indoor air pollution in all five Clarksville businesses exceeded the National Ambient Air Quality Standard for outdoor air, according to the study. There are now 28 towns and cities in Indiana that have enacted smoke-free ordinances. That means 29 percent of all Hoosiers are protected from secondhand smoke in public places compared to 1 percent in 2003.
“Workers who are protected by local, comprehensive smoke-free air laws are definitely protected from the harmful toxins known to exist in secondhand smoke,” said Sneegas. “This study demonstrates that workers who work in smoke-free establishments have healthier and safer work environments than those that continue to allow smoking.
“Smoke-free air laws reduce harmful indoor pollutants and that improves the health of the workers.”
The study was conducted using Persona Aerosol Monitors to measure the levels of fine particulate air pollution. A similar study was done in New Albany, and found that 10 businesses that allow smoking are exposing employees and customers to indoor air pollution three times above the National Ambient Air Quality Standard, according to ITPC.
An indoor-smoking ban was introduced in Clarksville in December, but was defeated by a 5-2 vote. Jeffersonville has had a ban in place since 2006, except for bars who serve the 21-and-older crowd.
Louisville bans smoking in all enclosed public places, including bars. The New Albany City Council this week voted 5-4 on first reading in favor of a smoking ban similar to Louisville’s.
