These days it is more common than not to have a smoke-free workplace, as the dangers of secondhand smoke have been well documented and include cardiovascular disease and cancer. However, if your workplace is just making the switch, employees will most likely undergo an adjustment period as they get used to the new rules. To have a cohesive workplace, it can be beneficial to treat smokers with respect while they acclimate to the rules.
Step 1
Write a professional memo. No matter your personal opinions on smoking in the workplace or smoking in general, it is important to respect your fellow co-workers' beliefs and habits. Use a professional format and proper wording as you would in any other interoffice memo.
Step 2
Describe the smoke-free workplace laws for your city or state. By explaining that the decision to take your particular workplace smoke free was a legal issue or mandated by state law, you remove the blame or responsibility from anyone in your company. Couching the issue in these terms in the letter can make for a more peaceful transition, as employees who are used to and enjoy smoking in the workplace are likely to be upset by the change.
Step 3
Note the health concerns for employees who are subjected to secondhand smoke. The Mayo Clinic reports that secondhand smoke can contain numerous amounts of toxins, including benzene, carbon monoxide, chromium, cyanide, formaldehyde, lead, nickel and polonium, among others. Explain in your letter that it is your company's desire to create a healthy workplace for all employees.
Step 4
Explain that eliminating secondhand smoke will help to make for a more economically profitable business, since workers may not contract illnesses as often, which can happen from inhaling secondhand smoke. In addition, the economic benefit can cross over to the physical aspects of the office by preserving the carpeting, paint and furniture, as secondhand smoke can linger and cause these items to depreciate at a faster rate.
Step 5
Write the memo in a way that does not personalize the situation to any specific employees. Those who smoke will most likely comply in a more agreeable way if they do not feel that they have been singled out or victimized.
Step 6
Outline in a clear manner the designated smoking areas, outside of the workplace building, where smokers will be able to enjoy a cigarette. Explain any accommodations you may have arranged for, such as additional seating, an awning for rainy days, or plants and flowers to beautify the space so that smokers feel valued and respected.
Things You'll Need
- Computer
