Vaping In The Workplace

Vaping has become increasingly popular in recent years. As a result, the issue of vaping in the workplace has become a topic of concern for both employers and employees. In the UK, there are specific laws and regulations governing vaping in the workplace, as well as guidelines for both employers and employees to follow. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of vaping in the workplace, including UK laws, dos and don’ts, employer responsibilities, and employee rights.

UK Laws on Vaping in the Workplace:

In the UK, the laws regarding vaping in the workplace are primarily governed by the Health Act 2006 and the Smoke-free (Premises and Enforcement) Regulations 2006. These laws prohibit smoking in enclosed or substantially enclosed workplaces, public places, and work vehicles. However, it’s important to note that these laws do not specifically address vaping.

Guidance for Employers around Vaping:

Employers have a duty to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of their employees, which includes addressing the issue of vaping in the workplace. Here are some do’s and don’ts for employers:

Employers Should

• Establish a clear vaping policy: Employers should develop a clear and comprehensive vaping policy that outlines where vaping is permitted or prohibited within the workplace.
• Provide designated vaping areas: If vaping is allowed on the premises, employers should designate specific areas where employees can vape without affecting non-vaping employees.
• Educate employees: Employers should educate their employees about the vaping policy and the potential health and safety risks associated with vaping.

Employers Shouldn’t

• Ignore the issue: Employers should not ignore the issue of vaping in the workplace, as it can lead to conflicts among employees and potential health and safety concerns.
• Discriminate against vapers: Employers should not discriminate against employees who vape, but rather address the issue in a fair and non-discriminatory manner.

Employer Responsibilities

Employers have several responsibilities when it comes to vaping in the workplace, including:

• Providing a safe working environment: Employers must ensure that the workplace is safe for all employees, whether they vape or not.
  Developing and implementing a vaping policy: Employers should develop a clear vaping policy and ensure that all employees are aware of and understand the policy.
• Enforcing the vaping policy: Employers have a responsibility to enforce the vaping policy and address any violations in a fair and consistent manner.
• Ensuring appropriate signage around the workplace is essential. You can order great quality no vaping signage here.

Employee Rights

Employees also have rights when it comes to vaping in the workplace, including:

• The right to a safe working environment: Employees have the right to work in an environment that is free from health and safety risks, including those associated with vaping.
• The right to be informed: Employees have the right to be informed about the vaping policy and any changes or updates to the policy.
  The right to reasonable accommodations: Employees who vape may have the right to reasonable accommodations, such as designated vaping areas, as long as it does not pose a risk to non-vaping employees.

Vaping in the workplace is a complex issue that requires careful consideration from both employers and employees. By understanding the UK laws, following the do’s and don’ts, and fulfilling their respective responsibilities and rights, employers and employees can work together to create a safe and inclusive workplace environment for all.

It is essential for employers to develop clear vaping policies and for employees to adhere to these policies, ensuring that the rights and responsibilities of all parties are respected.

Obviously working in a vape shop is completely different all our staff at E-Liquids UK are allowed to vape on site throughout their shift.