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Supporting Your Workers in Their Journey to Quit Smoking

In Employ Health’s Health Wellness Calendar January is dedicated to helping workers quit smoking. With 17% of Australians over the age of 14 either vaping or smoking, the need for support in quitting smoking is a worthy challenge that we can support workers with. By understanding the impact of smoking on your business and employees, you can help foster a healthier, more productive workplace.

The Reality of Smoking’s Impact in Australia:

Tobacco smoking remains the leading preventable cause of death and disease in Australia. This alarming statistic highlights the urgency for businesses to take action in supporting their employees’ health.

The Impact of Smoking on Businesses

Smoking poses several challenges for businesses:

Reduced Productivity:

Smoking breaks and increased sick leaves due to smoking-related health issues can significantly impact overall productivity.

Healthcare Costs:

Businesses often bear higher healthcare costs for employees who smoke, contributing to increased insurance premiums and medical expenses.

Workplace Safety:

Smoking can increase the risk of fire hazards and can compromise workplace safety standards.

Effect on Individual Employees

The impact of smoking on individuals is profound and multifaceted:

Smoking is linked to numerous health issues, including heart disease, stroke, and various forms of cancer.

Beyond physical health, smoking can affect mental well-being and quality of life.

The cost of purchasing cigarettes adds up resulting in a financial burden on the smoker and their family.

How Businesses Can Support Workers in Quitting:

You can take proactive steps to support your employees who decide to quit smoking:

Create a Smoke-Free Environment: Implementing a smoke-free policy in the workplace encourages a healthier lifestyle for all employees.
Provide Resources and Support: Offering access to quit-smoking programs, counselling, and educational materials can support your employees’ journey to quit smoking.
Encourage a Supportive Culture: Fostering a workplace culture that supports health and wellbeing is highly likely to boost morale and encourage employees to pursue healthier habits.

Quitting smoking is not just a personal victory; it’s a win for all parts of a smokers life. As we embrace January’s focus on smoking cessation, it’s time to take action. Employ Health is here to assist your business to kick off programs that set your employees and business up for success in 2024. Our expertise in workplace health and wellbeing ensures that your employees receive the support and resources they need to create ongoing behavioural change in their lives.

Take the first step in creating a healthier, smoke-free workplace. Reach out to Employ Health to learn more about how we can support your team in achieving a healthier, smoke-free lifestyle.

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Call 1300 367 519

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