Revolution smoke-free toolkit : frequently asked questions [fact sheet]

A future where businesses are thriving and workers are healthier can be our reality today when workplaces become 100% smoke-free. Here’s what you need to know about smoke- free workplaces. Frequently Asked Questions: Revolution Smoke-Free FAST FACTS The total time lost due to smoking breaks annually. Research from the UK found that smokers spend 40 minutes each work day to smoke. The amount in cleaning costs saved by businesses that went totally smoke-free. 20 days 10% drop The rate of lung cancer for workers in bars and restaurants that allow smoking as opposed to the general population. 50% higher FACT SHEET Photo: WHO/Xu Peng RegionPacificWestern Organization World Health Revolution Smoke-Free envisions a future where all types of workplaces across a range of industries are free from tobacco smoke. Business leaders are at the forefront of progress and innovation. As drivers of change in their industries, they will spur a movement towards a future with healthier, safer working environments. What is Revolution Smoke-Free? QUESTION ANSWER Frequently Asked Questions FACT SHEET A smoke-free policy lowers operational costs for business owners. It lowers health care, cleaning, maintenance, and fire insurance costs. It also makes employees more productive as more time is devoted to work. Smoke-free workplaces keep everyone in the office healthier and safer. The employees’ exposure to second-hand smoke in the workplace is reduced to zero, making them more productive and less prone to missed days at work. What are the benefits of a smoke-free policy to businesses? What are the benefits of going smoke-free to employees? Any business can be part of Revolution Smoke-Free. You may visit our website www.revolutionsmokefree.org to sign up and join the movement. You will then get access to the materials needed to implement a smoke-free workplace. By joining the movement, companies must ensure a 100% smoke- free workplace without any exceptions like designated smoking areas. Businesses will be guided on how to successfully launch a policy through the kit available from the site. Who can be part of the movement? Visit our official website www.revolutionsmokefree.org.Where can I get more information about the movement? A smoke-free workplace protects smokers by encouraging them to quit or reduce their smoking. When implementing a smoke- free policy, you can offer smokers resources to aid them in quitting such as smoking cessation hotlines, apps and websites, as well as counselling and pharmacotherapy options that can help them curb the habit. What about employees who smoke? QUESTION ANSWER Frequently Asked Questions FACT SHEET Policy change can be initiated not only by management but also by people in various levels of the business. It begins with equipping yourself with knowledge around the subject and forming a team of advocates around you who are also passionate for positive change. Reach out to HR to start the conversation and point to the available resources in revolutionsmokefree.org for the benefits of a smoke-free workplace as well as a step-by-step guide on how to implement a good policy. Taking advantage of all available opportunities to continue the conversation, like staff meetings, office events and other workplace forums will be crucial in securing maximum support. We’re rooting for you! What can employees do to push for a smoke-free policy in their offices? Join the revolution. Be a smoke-free workplace. WWW.REVOLUTIONSMOKEFREE.ORG W P R / 2 0 1 8 / D N H / 0 2 0 © World Health Organization 2018 All rights reserved.