SMOKING
Introduction
Did you know that only 3 out of 10 adults smoke? The number of people quitting is on the rise. Why
not join them and feel healthier and happier?
The Risks
Smoking can lead to many life threatening diseases such as - Respiratory Tract Cancer, Heart
Disease, Chronic Bronchitis and Emphysema to name only a few.
Main Points
The law requires Employers to take 'all practicable steps' to ensure that workplaces are
smokefree
If smoking occurs in a workplace and the Employer has failed to take such steps, an
Employee may lodge a complaint with the Ministry of Health
The present high incidence of heart disease and throat and lung cancer is directly
attributable to smoking. For instance, smokers are about three times more likely to
suffer a heart attack than non-smokers
Smoking reduces the ability of people to work, particularly in manual or stressful
occupation
Smoking around chemical products can alter the chemical properties and make them
more hazardous to inhale
Smoking provides an ignition source and poses a fire hazard particularly in areas
where there is a build up of dust, fumes and vapours and in confined spaces.
Discussion Points
If smoking occurs in a workplace and the Employer has failed to take such steps, an
Employee may lodge a complaint with the Ministry of Health
Practicable steps might include - display of smokefree signs in the workplace,
reference to the smokefree policy in workplace employment agreements and
recruitment policies, notifying service contractors of the smokefree policy, training
Managers and Supervisors on what to do if someone smokes in the workplace
Smoking also affects non-smokers in the workplace through passive smoking. There is
conclusive evidence that non-smokers are able to contract cancer through passive
smoking.
Questions and Answers
What are some of the health effects and risks associated with smoking?
Respiratory Tract Cancer
Heart Disease
Chronic Bronchitis
Emphysema.
What hazards do you create by smoking in the workplace?
Fire hazard
Health.
P.T.O
SMOKING
Related Topics:
1. Dust and Fumes
2. Fire Safety
3. Flammable Liquids
4. Managing Hazardous Substances
5. Pollution
6. Asbestos
7. Welfare