Smoking in the Workplace

You already know that cigarette smoking can cost you your health; but nowadays it can cost you your job.

Employers across the country are saying no to those who use tobacco. Wanting to lessen their liability in regards to health insurance premiums, many employers are beginning to take health issues more seriously.

As thousands per year succumb to the effects of smoking, like cancer, emphysema, and heart disease, employers are beginning to take matters into their own hands. Not wanting to pay for illness that are directly linked to tobacco usage, employers screen for those who recklessly light up before adding them onto the company health insurance plan.

According to federal laws, nicotine-free hiring is allowed because tobacco users are not recognized as a protected class, according to The U.S Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.

According to federal laws, nicotine-free hiring is allowed because tobacco users are not recognized as a protected class, according to The U.S Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.

Many argue that this is unfair and a form of discrimination. Though that may not particularly be true. the reason being companies decisions to not hire smokers has a valid reason: a political and business strategy that may have a position effect.

Those who know they may not get hired because they are smoking, which may lend itself to a serious health condition, may quit smoking.

We’ll see what type of legislation goes into effect to either protect the employers or employees.