Health Act 2006 : Elizabeth II. Chapter 28

The Act contains seven parts with provisions intended to protect public health as well as to improve the running of the NHS.

Measures include: the prohibition of smoking in enclosed public places and shared workplaces, with powers for appropriate authorities in England and Wales to make exemptions; a new Code of Practice to help prevent and control healthcare associated infections; and a duty on specified health organisations to appoint an Accountable Officer to ensure the safe use of controlled drugs and to share information about controlled drug use by health care professionals, in light of the recommendations of the Shipman inquiry fourth report.