The impending smoking ban is largely popular with employees and will merely formalise policies already in place in 74% of businesses, it has been claimed.
Amid claims that many employers fear the cost of compliance with the ban, a new survey by employment law consultancy Peninsula has found that three quarters of UK businesses are already smoke free.
The survey also found that 90% of workers support the ban and a staggering 80% will attempt to kick the habit as a result.
According to Peninsula, the findings are good news for employers.
Peter Done, managing director of Peninsula, said: “It is good to see that such a high percentage of workers are attempting to give up smoking.
“By eliminating exposure to smoke and second-hand smoke, you are actively protecting the health of your staff, leading to a healthier workforce.
“However, you are 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.”
He added that as well as achieving an overall healthier and cleaner workplace environment, firms may also witness a possible reduction in absenteeism, because smokers often take more sick days than non-smokers.
However, Done warned employers to ensure that stop smoking policies complied with the legislation, since failure to do so could be costly.
“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.
“Criminal prosecution is also possible for those organisations that do not implement an effective Smoking Policy.”
© Crimson Business Ltd. 2007
