Impact of smoking in workplaces
Going smoke free before the ban makes good business sense
Smoking in the workplace and exposure to second hand smoke can have a major impact on the workplace. Higher sickness rates lead to:
- More sick pay
- Lost productivity
- Increased absenteeism ( 1.5 million days/year in Greater Manchester*)
- Increased stress levels
Staff who take smoking breaks could be losing their employer up to one day in productivity for every working week, £364 million equivalent wages per year in Greater Manchester, (Department of Health Public Health Group,2005).
What are the benefits of a smoke free workplace?
The benefits of going smoke free include:
- Increased productivity
- Reduced sickness and absence
- Healthier workforce
- Improved staff morale
- A positive, responsible and healthy image projected by the company
- No need for expensive ventilation systems
- Compliance with future legislation
- Reduced risk of litigation for failing to protect staff from exposure
Under the new legislation, employers and managers will be responsible for ensuring that all enclosed and substantially enclosed parts of the premises are smoke-free, and will face substantial penalties for non- compliance. People smoking in your premises may also be subject to Fixed Penalty Notices.
Displaying adequate signage to inform people of the no-smoking policy will also be a legal requirement under the new law.
For more information on how to bring in an effective smoking policy and draft policy see our recommended links page.
For more information on how Salford City Council can support you in developing a smokefree policy, please contact
Environmental Health
Turnpike House
631 Eccles New Road
SALFORD
M5 2SH
Telephone: 0161-737 0551
Email environment@salford.gov.uk
This page was last updated on 3 October 2009
