HR Policy - Workplace Smoking Policy

This Workplace Smoking Policy aims to accommodate the needs of smokers and non-smokers and to provide all employees with a safe and healthy working environment.

Why do you need a Smoking Policy?

To educate smokers on the harmful effects of second-hand smoke on other employees and to provide advice, guidance and support to employees if needed. To provide employees with a healthy and efficient working environment through the prevention of conflict.

To provide educational and informative programs for all staff on the information and health concerns around smoking.

What does a Smoking Policy assist with?

All companies have a legal "duty of care" to protect their employees from any harm. This includes the harm caused by second-hand smoke. The policy does not seek to punish smokers but rather to protect and improve the health of all staff members.

Is a Smoking Policy required by South African law?

In South Africa, there is no specific law that requires companies to implement a smoking policy. However, companies have a legal obligation to provide their employees with a safe working environment and to protect them from harm, which includes the harm caused by second-hand smoke. The Occupational Health and Safety Act of 1993 requires employers to provide and maintain a working environment that is safe and without risk to the health of employees. As such, it is advisable for companies to have a clear and comprehensive smoking policy in place.

Barter McKellar Law

This document is supplied by Barter McKellar Law.

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