Breathe easy in the workplace

March 18, 2002 - Victorian employers with smelly workplaces polluted by smokers can take advantage of a new telephone advisory service to help with the transition to a safer, smokefree environment.

With research showing almost one third of Victorian in workplaces with either partial smoke bans or no smoking restrictions, Quit Victoria says there is help is at hand for workplaces that want to breathe easier.

Quit Executive Director Todd Harper said more employees and employers are recognising the benefits of on-site courses to help employees who want to quit smoking.

"The service is available to employers and employees and can be accessed by calling 9635 5524. Quit's trained staff will be able to assist in developing a smokefree policy and advise on how to counter any potential difficulties."

Todd Harper said that there was increased interest among workplaces in creating smokefree environments and even on-site help for smokers to quit.

"For example, we are seeing an increasing interest from employers in running quit courses at work for staff, as they recognise the productivity benefits of helping employees to quit."

"Most smokers want to quit, and going smokefree at work can be a great incentive for them to try and kick the habit altogether - the result is a healthier workplace, and healthier employees."

Pointing to the many benefits of going smokefree at work, he added:

"There's no doubt a smokefree workplace is a safer and healthier workplace, with less absenteeism from illness caused by passive smoking."