Smokefree

Tobacco use is the leading cause of preventable death in New Zealand, accounting for between 4,300 and 4,700 deaths every year.  When deaths associated with exposure to second hand smoke are included in these figures, the rate rises to over 5000 per year. 

Research indicates that smoking causes one in four of all cancer deaths in New Zealand, and increases the risk of respiratory disease, circulation problems, urinary tract and bladder disease, and diseases of the digestive tract.

The facts

• Employees who smoke take up to 33% more sick leave than non smokers.
• A smoker taking four 10 minute breaks each day works a month less than a non smoker in the course of a year.
• Half of all people who smoke today, and continue to do so, will eventually be killed from a smoking related illness, and will die an average of 15 years earlier than they would if they were a non smoker.

WorkWell for Smokefree

Smoking cessation programmes have been found to be effective in a workplace environment, where encouragement from colleagues and supportive policy can help trigger attempts to quit amongst employees and their families. 

Legislation requires that all workplaces maintain a smokefree environment throughout all indoor areas, and that designated smoking areas meet particular standards to ensure minimal harm to those working or taking a break in close proximity.

Download the WorkWell for Smokefree Toolkit.  Inside you’ll find documents and resources to help you ensure:

• Your Smokefree programme is effective, sustainable and integrates with other WorkWell initiatives.
• The reasons for implementing a Smokefree programme have been justified and help gain management approval.
• Your success in developing a Smokefree policy and  plan of action.

Remember all workplaces undertaking WorkWell Accreditation are eligible to attend the FREE WorkWell Workshops or access FREE support from one of the WorkWell Advisors.