California Air Resources Board

ETS exposure in the outdoors, however, is often mistaken to be safe due to the mixing of the smoke with fresh air. Since very little is known about the range of concentrations in outdoor environments, ARB conducted an outdoor monitoring study as part of its investigation into ETS as a Toxic Air Contaminant (TAC). This study had some surprising results: some of the concentrations of nicotine measured were found to be just as high as some documented indoor exposures. And, although many outdoor ETS exposures may be considered low, the U.S. Surgeon General concluded that there was no safe threshold of exposure to ETS. Infrequent and low exposures are still capable of inducing cardiovascular effects that could result in a serious event. Furthermore, brief exposure to ETS can also trigger an asthma attack in susceptable individuals. ETS may also be one of the greatest threats to the health of athletes, officials, and spectators in sports arenas and outdoor sporting events as it may compromise their training and performance. Athletes often mention ETS as an irritant at sporting events, such as bike races and skiing competitions.

Overall, Californians support smoking bans around playgrounds, building entrances, outdoor sporting events, entertainment venues, outdoor dining areas, and apartment and hotel common areas. California legislation bans smoking within 25 feet of playgrounds and sandboxes (AB 188, 2001) as well as within 20 feet of doorways (AB 846, 2003). Some California communities have enacted more restrictive ordinances: Calabasas was the first U.S. city to go completely smoke-free (smoking allowed in designated areas only) and smoking is prohibited on Solana Beach, Monterey beach, and some beaches in San Diego and Orange County. A smoking ban has also been proposed for all Santa Cruz City Parks, and it has also been banned in most public places in Contra Costa County and Santa Monica.

Outdoor ETS exposure and the policies:

Exposure in Outdoor/Recreational Areas and Sports Arenas:

Information on Outdoor Smoking Bans: