E-fact 61 - Tobacco: advice for employers on creating a smoke-free working environment

Environmental tobacco smoke exposure – also known as second-hand smoke exposure – is a significant cause of mortality, morbidity and disability in the EU. Occupational ETS exposure refers to exposure at the workplace to tobacco smoke produced by others. The smoke can be produced by customers as well as by colleagues. However in Europe it is rare for workers to be exposed to ETS produced by colleagues, as the majority of EU Member States have implemented a smoking ban at workplaces. The hotel and catering sector is, however, an exception as many Member States do not yet have a complete smoking ban in restaurants, bars, etc. This E-fact is inetended for employers. It describes health and economic aspects of ETS exposure, as well as it provides an advice about creating smoke-free workplaces and helping smoking workers to quit.