By giving its approval to a new anti-smoking law, the Austrian parliament has placed more restrictions on smoking in bars and restaurants.
In line with the new law, which will come into effect from January 1, 2009, restaurants and bars larger than 861 square feet have to create separate smoking sections.
However, in the case of those bars and restaurants that are smaller than 538 square feet, owners can decide whether or not they want to allow smoking. The authorities will determine if the creation of a separate room is feasible for those bars and restaurants between 538 and 861 square feet.
According to Agence France-Presse, if owners fail to comply with the new law, they will have to face a fine of up to E10,000.
In addition to this, minors and pregnant women have been banned from working in spaces where they are exposed to smoke, revealed The Associated Press.