FAQ about smoke-free working hours at VM Tarm
What does smoke-free working hours entail?
Smoke-free working hours mean that smoking (or the use of other smoking or nicotine products that are not medical treatments) is not allowed:
- During working hours.
- Smoking during breaks may only take place in the designated area. This also applies to guests.
- In the company's vehicles.
- When representing the company (e.g., on trips and at trade fairs).
When is smoke-free working hours introduced?
Smoke-free working hours will be introduced on 1 September 2023. This is being done simultaneously with a number of other companies in the municipality. Together, the companies have over 1,700 employees. The project is supported by the Municipality and the Danish Cancer Society.
Why is smoke-free working hours implemented?
Smoke-free working hours are implemented to ensure that there is no environment around smoking. When employees are together smoking, they easily influence others to start smoking. At the same time, it is easier to quit smoking if there is no environment around smoking at the workplace.
Who has decided that smoke-free working hours should be implemented?
Management has made the decision to implement smoke-free working hours. The collaboration committee has been involved in the decision-making process and in the development of the smoking policy.
Why don't we also ban sweets and cakes? They are also unhealthy.
Smoking is by far the most deadly preventable health factor. Far fewer people die from, for example, poor diet.
Can the company afford to interfere in employees' personal lifestyle choices in this way?
Already, the company cannot avoid influencing employees' lifestyles. For example, it encourages smoking when there is an environment around smoking. At the same time, the aggressive tobacco industry especially influences the young with new nicotine products and various hidden marketing. At VM Tarm, however, we would like to influence employees in a healthier direction, and it is not a greater intrusion into personal freedom than the influence that already exists. On the contrary, we give non-smokers and ex-smokers the freedom not to be tempted.
Does the ban also apply during self-paid breaks?
In principle, we cannot ban smoking during self-paid breaks. Smoking during breaks may only occur in the designated area. However, we strongly encourage that smoking is also avoided during self-paid breaks. We hope that employees will generally support this project, as it is an opportunity to contribute to a positive societal development.
Does the ban also apply to e-cigarettes and snus?
Smoke-free working hours means working hours without the use of smoking and nicotine products that are not medical treatments. This includes snus, e-cigarettes, etc., but not nicotine patches.
Who is responsible for ensuring compliance with the rules?
It is always the management of the individual department that is responsible for ensuring that the rules are followed. We trust that employees will comply with the new smoke-free policy. Smoke-free working hours will be sanctioned in the same way as the other personnel rules.
Where can I find the company's smoking policy?
The smoking policy can be found in the employee handbook, which is available in print in the canteen. For more information, you can always contact info@vmtarm.dk