Shisha Lounge Faces Hefty Fine for Endangering Customer Health
A shisha lounge in Edgware, known as Luna Lounge, has recently been slapped with a substantial fine of over £6,000 for repeatedly putting its customers’ health at risk. The establishment was found to have flouted national health and safety regulations by allowing indoor smoking of shisha, a practice that is strictly prohibited in enclosed public spaces.
Located on High Street in Edgware, Luna Lounge came under scrutiny by Harrow Council after reports surfaced in 2021 regarding indoor shisha smoking. Despite multiple warnings and attempts by council officers to rectify the situation, the lounge continued to operate in violation of the law, endangering the health of its patrons.
According to the council, Luna Lounge had constructed a structure within its premises specifically for serving shisha, enabling customers to smoke indoors. Despite being advised to adhere to the regulations and display ‘no smoking’ signs, the owner, Rashid Marzoq Almarzoq, failed to take corrective action. Almarzoq claimed that the structure was built for security reasons and insisted that shutters were open during trading hours, deflecting responsibility for the violations.
In a visit conducted by the commercial safety team in November 2023, officers observed that the roof of the lounge was fully enclosed while customers continued to smoke shisha indoors. Subsequently, the matter was brought before Willesden Magistrates’ Court, where the owner pleaded guilty to multiple offenses related to indoor smoking and the absence of required signage.
As a result of the court proceedings, Almarzoq and his company were ordered to pay a hefty fine of £6,643.50 for their disregard of public health and safety regulations. The verdict serves as a stern warning to other shisha lounge owners who may consider flouting the law for financial gain.
Public Safety Concerns and Legal Ramifications
Cllr Pritesh Patel, the cabinet member for cleaner streets and public safety, emphasized the importance of upholding the ban on indoor smoking to protect individuals from the harmful effects of second-hand smoke. The national prohibition on smoking in enclosed public spaces has been in place for years, making it imperative for businesses like shisha lounges to comply with the law.
Despite numerous attempts by the council to assist Luna Lounge in rectifying its violations, the owner chose to ignore the warnings and continue operating unlawfully. The decision to take legal action against Almarzoq and his company highlights the council’s commitment to enforcing public health regulations and holding accountable those who jeopardize community well-being.
By imposing a substantial fine on Luna Lounge, the court sends a clear message to other businesses that flouting health and safety regulations will not be tolerated. The financial repercussions of non-compliance serve as a deterrent to prevent similar violations in the future and safeguard the public from exposure to hazardous substances.
Compliance and Education in the Shisha Industry
Cllr Patel reiterated the council’s commitment to supporting local businesses in complying with health and safety regulations, particularly within the shisha industry. He urged all shisha lounge owners to seek guidance and advice from the council to ensure that their establishments adhere to the law and prioritize customer well-being.
Educating shisha lounge owners and staff about the risks associated with indoor smoking and the importance of maintaining a safe environment for patrons is crucial in preventing future violations. By fostering a culture of compliance and accountability within the industry, authorities can work collaboratively with businesses to uphold public health standards and protect the community from potential harm.
In conclusion, the case of Luna Lounge serves as a cautionary tale for shisha lounge owners who disregard health and safety regulations for personal gain. The legal ramifications and financial penalties imposed on the establishment underscore the importance of compliance with national smoking bans and the obligation to prioritize public health above all else. As authorities continue to monitor and enforce regulations within the shisha industry, it is essential for businesses to proactively seek guidance and adhere to best practices to ensure the well-being of their customers and the community at large.