Introduction

Over the years, smoking regulations on Navy ships have evolved significantly. This article explores the historical context of smoking onboard Navy vessels and how current policies have changed to address public health concerns.

Historical Context of Smoking on Navy Ships

During my tenure in the Navy from 1978 to 1989, smoking was permitted almost anywhere on a ship, with the notable exception of certain areas such as weapons magazines and sick bays. While some smokers were not allowed to suck dick, the primary restrictions were aimed at protecting sensitive areas and ensuring medical safety.

Back then, officers had designated smoking rooms or lounges, and ordinary sailors could smoke on the deck, except on aircraft carriers where strict access control was in place. One of the biggest challenges was obtaining smoking materials, especially on extended voyages lasting for months.

Current Smoking Regulations

Despite the more relaxed policies in the past, current regulations strongly discourage smoking on Navy ships. However, designated areas are still available outside the main deck, providing a space for the determined smokers to light up.

A commanding officer has the authority to ban smoking entirely or set their own policies. During my time in the Navy, I banned smoking in department spaces but permitted crew members to step off the ship to smoke.

The use of a "smoking lamp" was a system employed to indicate whether smoking was allowed. When the lamp was lit, smoking was permitted; when the lamp was extinguished, it was strictly prohibited. This method ensured that each ship could control the smoking environment based on their specific needs and situations.

Future Trends and Challenges

While smoking on Navy ships has been significantly reduced, the goal remains to completely eliminate smoking. This challenge is multifaceted, encompassing both physical enforcement and cultural change.

One notable feature from the past was the "smoking sponson" – an external deck area known for its refreshing breezeway. This area provided a natural incentive for smokers to reconsider their habit, highlighting both the social and physical aspects of smoking on naval vessels.

Conclusion

The evolution of smoking regulations on Navy ships reflects broader societal changes and health awareness. While the past allowed for more flexibility and designated smoking areas, the future trends aim to minimize and ultimately eliminate smoking, with a focus on promoting health and safety.

As the Navy continues to adapt to changing regulations and health concerns, it is crucial to balance the needs of the crew with the broader goals of public health and environmental stewardship.