You can’t smoke here! Some observations of no-smoking signs in Bangkok, Thailand

Abstract

ABSTRACT No-smoking signs communicate smoke-free rules to eliminate second-hand smoke and tobacco consumption. In this essay, I critically reflect on the presence, meanings, and context of no-smoking signs in public places in Bangkok, illustrated with photos of signs and accompanying commentary. Impressively, no-smoking signs were omnipresent in the city. However, unattractive designs, condescending messages, lack of language diversity and technological application, and smoking violations observed by the author all raise questions about whether they were noticed and acted upon. I call for an overhaul of no-smoking signs to curb the global tobacco epidemic and its devastating impact in cities.