Tobacco use continues to be a leading cause of preventable death in Vermont. Some groups of employed adults—including those working in food service, maintenance and construction-related occupations—have even higher rates of tobacco use. The prevalence of adult smoking has decreased over the last decade, in part due to polices supporting tobacco-free workplace. Worksites can continue to play an important role in reducing tobacco use and creating an environment that supports a right to breathe clean air.
RECOMMENDED STRATEGIES:
Education and Awareness
- Promote free cessation resources through 802Quits.
- Offer incentives or challenges to encourage quitting.
On-Site Support
- Encourage physical activity or relaxation breaks as alternatives to smoking breaks.
- Host on-site, online or other tobacco cessation counseling.
- Move cigarette receptacles away from builidng entrances.
Policy Change
- Implement a tobacco- and vape-free property policy with signage.
- Develop guidelines for participations in tobacco cessation activities during the workday.
- Ensure tobacco cessation counselling and medication are offered through the organization's health insurance.
- Create a property-wide tobacco-free policy that includes e-cigarettes and make sure employees are aware it exists.
RELATED RESOURCES:
- Free cessation support for individuals: 802Quits.org
- Sample Tobacco-Free Workplace Policy
- [email protected] Toolkit
- Smoke-free Signage Order Form
For more information, download the going tobacco-free section of the Worksite Wellness Toolkit!