Feasibility and practicability studies of an evaluation index system for implementation of smoke-free laws and regulations of cities in China

INTRODUCTION: The aim of the study is to adjust and improve the feasibility and practicability of an evaluation index system, developed for the implementation of smoke-free laws and regulations, by applying it to analyze and compare the contents and implementation of smoke-free laws and regulations in eight legislative cities in China. METHODS: In regard to indicators of the established evaluation index system, data on tobacco control/smoke-free laws and regulations and their implementation in some legislative cities in China were collected, sorted, and compared, to examine and adjust the feasibility and practicality of the indicators. RESULTS: The evaluation index system for implementation of smoke-free laws and regulations of cities in China has been adjusted to include 5 first-level indicators, including: 1) Simple, clear and executable legislation; 2) Careful planning and sufficient resources for law enforcement; 3) Participation of civil society; 4) Communication; and 5) Monitoring and evaluation of the implementation and impact of laws. There were 27 second-level indicators, including management department, scope of smoke-free places, requirements for non-smoking places etc. There were 27 third-level indicators, including construction of law enforcement, coordination network, work of coordination agencies, staffing situation etc. CONCLUSIONS: The preliminary adjusted evaluation index system for the implementation of smoke-free laws and regulations of cities in China provides a reference and standardization for evaluating effectiveness of implementation of Chinese tobacco control laws and regulations.