Where's the Smoke? The Correct Location for Employee Smoking

As a business, providing a safe and healthy workplace for employees is paramount. This includes safeguarding their health from the harmful effects of secondhand smoke. The designated smoking area is a crucial aspect of maintaining a smoke-free environment for non-smokers while providing a designated space for smokers.

Why It Matters

Protect Non-Smokers from Health Risks: Secondhand smoke exposure has been linked to increased risks of lung cancer, heart disease, and respiratory problems in non-smokers [1]. Establishing a designated smoking area reduces their exposure and protects their health.

Maintain a Clean and Odorless Workplace: Smoking in unauthorized areas can leave behind residual odors and stains, creating an unpleasant work environment [2]. A dedicated smoking area helps keep the rest of the workplace clean and fresh.

Key Benefits

Benefit	Description
Improved Health and Well-being	Reduces exposure to secondhand smoke, promoting overall health and well-being.
Enhanced Productivity	A smoke-free environment minimizes distractions and improves concentration, boosting productivity.
Reduced Absenteeism	Healthier employees are less likely to experience smoke-related illnesses, reducing absenteeism and costs associated with sick days.

Challenges and Limitations

Finding a Suitable Location: The designated smoking area should be isolated from sensitive areas like entrances, air intakes, and non-smoking zones to prevent secondhand smoke infiltration [3].

Enforcement and Compliance: Ensuring employees adhere to designated smoking areas requires clear communication, signage, and enforcement mechanisms to maintain a smoke-free workplace.

Making the Right Choice

Consider the following factors when selecting a smoking area:

Isolation: The area should be physically separated from non-smoking areas.

Ventilation: Adequate ventilation is essential to prevent smoke from spreading.

Convenience: The area should be easily accessible but not too close to non-smoking zones.

Maintenance: Plan for regular cleaning and maintenance to keep the area clean and odor-free.

6 Effective Strategies for Designating a Smoking Area

Establish Clear Policies and Communicate: Communicate designated smoking areas to all employees and enforce adherence.

Provide Signage and Markings: Clearly mark smoking areas with signage and floor markings to guide employees.

Consider Outdoor Spaces: Outdoor smoking areas offer better ventilation and reduce the risk of smoke infiltration.

Utilize Designated Shelters: If outdoor smoking is not feasible, consider enclosed shelters with proper ventilation systems.

Encourage Smoke-Free Workplaces: Implement campaigns to promote smoke-free workplaces and encourage employees to quit smoking.

Provide Employee Support: Offer resources for employees who want to quit smoking, such as smoking cessation programs or counseling.

Stories of Success

Case Study 1: Reduced Absenteeism and Improved Productivity

A global financial services company implemented a smoke-free workplace policy and designated a smoking area in a well-ventilated outdoor space. Within a year, they reported a 15% reduction in absenteeism due to smoke-related illnesses and a 5% increase in productivity due to a healthier work environment.

Case Study 2: Enhanced Customer Satisfaction

A retail store witnessed a decline in customer complaints after implementing a smoke-free policy. By eliminating secondhand smoke, customers felt more comfortable and satisfied with their shopping experience.

Case Study 3: Increased Employee Satisfaction

A healthcare organization established a designated smoking area with comfortable seating and fresh air ventilation. Employees appreciated the consideration for their smoking needs and the improved workplace conditions.

Call to Action

Creating a designated smoking area is essential for any business that values the health and well-being of its employees. By following these strategies and considering the factors outlined above, you can establish a safe and effective smoking area that meets the needs of both smokers and non-smokers.

References:

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency: Health Effects of Secondhand Smoke

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Smoke-Free Workplaces

Occupational Safety and Health Administration: Smoking in the Workplace

Tables

Pro	Con
Protects non-smokers from health risks	May create resentment among smokers
Reduces absenteeism and increases productivity	Potential fire hazard if not properly maintained
Enhances employee and customer satisfaction	Can be seen as a discriminatory practice

Common Mistake	How to Avoid
Designating a smoking area too close to non-smoking zones	Ensure sufficient distance and physical barriers to prevent secondhand smoke infiltration
Failing to provide adequate ventilation	Install proper ventilation systems to remove smoke particles and odors
Ignoring employee feedback	Gather employee input and consider their preferences when selecting a smoking area

Where's the Smoke? The Correct Location for Employee Smoking