9 in 10 workers support the total workplace smoking ban

A survey of over 2,136 workers by Peninsula the employment law consultancy has shown that 91% of workers support the forthcoming workplace ban on smoking.

- 91% of workers are in favour of the total ban on smoking in the workplace

- 79% of workers who smoke are attempting to give up

- 74% of bosses already enforce an existing workplace smoking ban

Based on a polled survey of 2,136 workers and 862 bosses from a variety of industries across the United Kingdom.

Peter Done, Managing Director of Peninsula provides quote and comment

On the 1st July 2007, England will bring in legislation on smoking in enclosed public places. Any failure by employers in achieving a smoke free (safe environment) for employees and any other persons affected by the incidence of continued smoking in the workplace will surely result in punitive damages being awarded in the future and possible criminal prosecution for those organisations that do not implement an effective Smoking Policy.

By eliminating exposure to smoke and second-hand smoke, you are actively protecting the health of your staff, leading to a healthier workforce, and also protecting your organisation's interests by avoiding the possibility of future personal injury claims against it, as a direct result of non-smoking employees suffering harm or the long term effects of passive smoking, attributable to being at work.

Ahead of the 1st July you need to decide your desired position now and, if necessary, negotiate the necessary changes with your staff now. You may wish to re-visit your current policies regarding recruitment now. Employers need to address the issue of workplace smoking sooner rather than later and ensure that the smoking policy they adopt is effective and satisfies the requirements of the new Act.

It is good to see that such a high percentage of workers are attempting to give up smoking. This first and foremost will have immediate benefits not only for their health but also for the health of fellow members of staff who will no longer be exposed to second hand smoke. There are also the obvious cost benefits from not purchasing cigarettes. This will lead to an overall healthier and cleaner workplace environment for everybody, and also a possible reduction in absenteeism because smokers often take more sick days off work than non-smokers.