fumeerkamer

A fumeerkamer, literally a smoking room, is a designated indoor space within a building where smoking is permitted. The room is separated from non-smoking areas and typically equipped with ventilation designed to remove tobacco smoke and odors, aiming to minimize exposure for other occupants of the building.

Design and operation commonly include an independent ventilation system with exhaust to the outside, and sometimes a dedicated air supply to create slight negative pressure relative to adjacent spaces. Air from the room is not recirculated into other parts of the building. Surfaces are kept smooth for easy cleaning, doors may have self-closing devices, and the room is usually equipped with ashtrays, seating, and adequate lighting. Signage indicating that smoking is allowed only in that space is often provided.

Usage and regulations vary by country and jurisdiction. In many places, public health regulations have reduced or eliminated the availability of smoking rooms in workplaces, hotels, and other indoor public environments. Where allowed, fumeerkamers must comply with local fire, ventilation, and health-safety codes and may be subject to periodic inspection. In some regions, smoking rooms are prohibited altogether in workplaces, with outdoor smoking areas preferred.

History and context: Smoking rooms became common in the 20th century as a way to accommodate smokers while reducing exposure for others. As understanding of secondhand smoke grew and regulations tightened, many such spaces were closed or repurposed. Some older buildings still retain fumeerkamers, often converted to other uses.