Dear All
The problem which I am going to share with all of you is about the Spitting of Pan/Gutkha by the employees in the work premises. I have tried my level best to solve this problem but it is becoming worse day by day.
The security has done their best efforts by frisking to find the actual culprits but all in vain. I don’t know what to do now to stop all this. As this is against the hygiene standards of the premises also. I took the training sessions also to make them understand about the bad effects of pan gutkha on body as well as on work culture and their growth.
Please help me in finding the better solution for this:?:
From India, Jodhpur
The problem which I am going to share with all of you is about the Spitting of Pan/Gutkha by the employees in the work premises. I have tried my level best to solve this problem but it is becoming worse day by day.
The security has done their best efforts by frisking to find the actual culprits but all in vain. I don’t know what to do now to stop all this. As this is against the hygiene standards of the premises also. I took the training sessions also to make them understand about the bad effects of pan gutkha on body as well as on work culture and their growth.
Please help me in finding the better solution for this:?:
From India, Jodhpur
It's the problem that the entire country faces. So irritating... spitting in public, corruption, bribery all form the pillars of India. Difficult to change.
This might help:
1. Display posters stressing the effects of using tobacco.
2. Ban tobacco on the premises (Fine employees when they are caught or even terminate a few).
3. Use a camera to find out who is spitting :)
From India, Madras
This might help:
1. Display posters stressing the effects of using tobacco.
2. Ban tobacco on the premises (Fine employees when they are caught or even terminate a few).
3. Use a camera to find out who is spitting :)
From India, Madras
Thanks for replying and sharing your thoughts.
I have already completed both number 1 and 2. However, it proves effective for the next 3-4 days after doing this, but then later on, the same problem arises.
As for number 3, it's a little expensive, and senior management has refused to approve it.
Anyhow, thanks a lot.
From India, Jodhpur
I have already completed both number 1 and 2. However, it proves effective for the next 3-4 days after doing this, but then later on, the same problem arises.
As for number 3, it's a little expensive, and senior management has refused to approve it.
Anyhow, thanks a lot.
From India, Jodhpur
Fine with huge amount which makes others alert and create a scarceness using tobacco with in the organization.
From India, Hyderabad
From India, Hyderabad
Please arrange a short course on the Art of Living. Make it compulsory for all employees to attend. This may help in removing the root of this abuse as over 80% of the employees involved will quit this bad habit of chewing pan and gutkha. You may give it a try.
Regards
From India, Mumbai
Regards
From India, Mumbai
Dear DSP,
This is the problem, which generally has been with the lower-level workers. To stop this, you can counsel them and provide training classes. But as you said, you have done all this. Then, you can ask the security guards to take frequent rounds of that particular area where this problem exists. Whoever is the culprit, fine him or her with a huge amount and take disciplinary action against them.
Thanks,
Rajesh Sharma
From India, Delhi
This is the problem, which generally has been with the lower-level workers. To stop this, you can counsel them and provide training classes. But as you said, you have done all this. Then, you can ask the security guards to take frequent rounds of that particular area where this problem exists. Whoever is the culprit, fine him or her with a huge amount and take disciplinary action against them.
Thanks,
Rajesh Sharma
From India, Delhi
Hi, DSP, IF possible identify the area where spitting is done frequently paste wall tiles bearing the photoa of Various god & goddess . it might help to reduce the spitting
From India, Nagpur
From India, Nagpur
Just put a security check at the gate or the entrance. Before implementing that, introduce a rule stating that whoever is caught with any tobacco items will lose their day's salary. It's no surprise they are smoking or chewing, etc. Create a rule that affects their monthly salary.
What type of organization are you working in? Let me know, and I can assist you with some rules.
From India, Bangalore
What type of organization are you working in? Let me know, and I can assist you with some rules.
From India, Bangalore
Just put a security check at the gate or the entrance before implementing a rule that whoever is caught with any tobacco items will lose their day's salary. It's no surprise that they are smoking or chewing, etc. Develop a policy that impacts their monthly salary.
What type of organization are you working in? Just let me know, and I can assist you with some rules.
From India, Bangalore
What type of organization are you working in? Just let me know, and I can assist you with some rules.
From India, Bangalore
Hey there!
Regarding your input, here is the corrected version:
"Good photo? Guys, think... A person who is spitting will surely spit below his/her average height, that would be a maximum of 5 feet from the ground. It will look awkward if you do so. Rather, as an HR professional, think of something else that can impact them. Just specify the industry/company type, and I or anybody else shall help you out."
I hope this helps! Let me know if you need further assistance.
From India, Bangalore
Regarding your input, here is the corrected version:
"Good photo? Guys, think... A person who is spitting will surely spit below his/her average height, that would be a maximum of 5 feet from the ground. It will look awkward if you do so. Rather, as an HR professional, think of something else that can impact them. Just specify the industry/company type, and I or anybody else shall help you out."
I hope this helps! Let me know if you need further assistance.
From India, Bangalore
Hi,
Yes, God's photo worked, 6 inches above ground level... very embarrassing and depressing too to see to what extent God comes to help people in India. An employee came to the office drunk; immediately he was terminated with notice pay. A person came with pan and gutkha in mouth, asked to go home, and marked as on leave. This is strictly a company policy written in the employee handbook. What actions can be taken against someone with these habits? The person dirtying the premises caught in the act is asked to clean it too.
Management support and continuous vigilance and lots of awareness sessions are required to stop this problem. It also depends on how deeply it is ingrained in the system. The kind of industry the company is in should also be considered.
Thanks,
Geeta
From Korea, Seoul
Yes, God's photo worked, 6 inches above ground level... very embarrassing and depressing too to see to what extent God comes to help people in India. An employee came to the office drunk; immediately he was terminated with notice pay. A person came with pan and gutkha in mouth, asked to go home, and marked as on leave. This is strictly a company policy written in the employee handbook. What actions can be taken against someone with these habits? The person dirtying the premises caught in the act is asked to clean it too.
Management support and continuous vigilance and lots of awareness sessions are required to stop this problem. It also depends on how deeply it is ingrained in the system. The kind of industry the company is in should also be considered.
Thanks,
Geeta
From Korea, Seoul
Dear Friend,
To educate them, please arrange a slideshow (on a big screen) to raise awareness about the ill effects of tobacco. There is no need to spend money by hiring commercial presenters. You can find material online or from cancer institutes like Tata. As Asha mentioned, graphic pictures can deter people from this habit. This is in the employees' interest.
To address non-compliance, please consider imposing fines, issuing notices to all employees, and initiating salary deductions. This approach should be effective. It is in the company's best interest.
Hope this helps.
Regards,
Shikha
From India, Mumbai
To educate them, please arrange a slideshow (on a big screen) to raise awareness about the ill effects of tobacco. There is no need to spend money by hiring commercial presenters. You can find material online or from cancer institutes like Tata. As Asha mentioned, graphic pictures can deter people from this habit. This is in the employees' interest.
To address non-compliance, please consider imposing fines, issuing notices to all employees, and initiating salary deductions. This approach should be effective. It is in the company's best interest.
Hope this helps.
Regards,
Shikha
From India, Mumbai
Dear DSP, Reward the employees who identify someone spitting pan/ gutkha. And let the recipient of rewards be anonymous. Regards, Pournima
From United Kingdom, Brentford
From United Kingdom, Brentford
Please place idols of gods/goddesses at those corners where spitting is rampant. This has worked in many offices in Hyderabad. It should be an idol of Ganesha, Saibaba, Saraswati, or a big photograph of Jesus or a huge photograph of the crescent, etc.
From India, Warangal
From India, Warangal
Hi,
You have two options. One is to simply follow the provisions of health under the Factories Act Section 20: Spittoons.
(1) In every factory, there shall be provided a sufficient number of spittoons in convenient places, and they shall be maintained in a clean and hygienic condition.
(2) The State Government may make rules prescribing the type and the number of spittoons to be provided and their location in any factory and provide for such further matters relating to their maintenance in a clean and hygienic condition.
(3) No person shall spit within the premises of a factory except in the spittoons provided for the purpose, and a notice containing this provision and the penalty for its violation shall be prominently displayed at suitable places in the premises.
(4) Whoever spits in contravention of subsection (3) shall be punishable with a fine not exceeding five rupees.
Otherwise, take strict action against the spitting person. Posters, training, banners are not effective solutions. This is my personal opinion.
From India
You have two options. One is to simply follow the provisions of health under the Factories Act Section 20: Spittoons.
(1) In every factory, there shall be provided a sufficient number of spittoons in convenient places, and they shall be maintained in a clean and hygienic condition.
(2) The State Government may make rules prescribing the type and the number of spittoons to be provided and their location in any factory and provide for such further matters relating to their maintenance in a clean and hygienic condition.
(3) No person shall spit within the premises of a factory except in the spittoons provided for the purpose, and a notice containing this provision and the penalty for its violation shall be prominently displayed at suitable places in the premises.
(4) Whoever spits in contravention of subsection (3) shall be punishable with a fine not exceeding five rupees.
Otherwise, take strict action against the spitting person. Posters, training, banners are not effective solutions. This is my personal opinion.
From India
Dear DSP,
To resolve this problem, in my opinion, first, you need to identify or fix a designated place for chewing gutkha. There is no restriction for chewing gutkha provided it is done at the designated place. Secondly, you can issue a circular for those who are habitual to visit this place and then return.
I hope you will understand my point of view.
Vimal
From India, Gandhinagar
To resolve this problem, in my opinion, first, you need to identify or fix a designated place for chewing gutkha. There is no restriction for chewing gutkha provided it is done at the designated place. Secondly, you can issue a circular for those who are habitual to visit this place and then return.
I hope you will understand my point of view.
Vimal
From India, Gandhinagar
Dear DSP,
To resolve this problem, in my opinion, first, you need to identify or fix a place for chewing gutkha. There is no restriction for chewing gutkha provided it is done at the designated place.
Secondly, you can issue a circular for those who are accustomed to visiting this place and returning.
I hope you will understand my point of view.
Vimal
From India, Gandhinagar
To resolve this problem, in my opinion, first, you need to identify or fix a place for chewing gutkha. There is no restriction for chewing gutkha provided it is done at the designated place.
Secondly, you can issue a circular for those who are accustomed to visiting this place and returning.
I hope you will understand my point of view.
Vimal
From India, Gandhinagar
Hi, thanks everybody for your suggestions.
I have attended training classes, and I have implemented things like educational posters, wordings, notices, and warnings. However, it didn't help. :(
Even though the security team conducts proper rounds and frisking, these employees still find ways to outsmart them. One day, my security team informed me that they discovered 20 gutkha packets hidden in the clothes of an employee. Immediately, that person was dismissed. We have a policy in place, and I have made it very clear that if anyone is found chewing pan/gutkha on the premises, they will be fined Rs. 500, and their photo will be displayed on the notice board for a week as a warning. Despite initially taking this warning seriously, these individuals tend to resume their behavior after a few days, albeit in a different location.
Thank you to each and every one for your support and advice. I will update everyone once I have found the best solution to this problem.
From India, Jodhpur
I have attended training classes, and I have implemented things like educational posters, wordings, notices, and warnings. However, it didn't help. :(
Even though the security team conducts proper rounds and frisking, these employees still find ways to outsmart them. One day, my security team informed me that they discovered 20 gutkha packets hidden in the clothes of an employee. Immediately, that person was dismissed. We have a policy in place, and I have made it very clear that if anyone is found chewing pan/gutkha on the premises, they will be fined Rs. 500, and their photo will be displayed on the notice board for a week as a warning. Despite initially taking this warning seriously, these individuals tend to resume their behavior after a few days, albeit in a different location.
Thank you to each and every one for your support and advice. I will update everyone once I have found the best solution to this problem.
From India, Jodhpur
Dear DSP 1402 - "Working towards success will make you a master. But working towards satisfaction will make you a legend."
May I take the liberty of commenting on this problem both as an Oral Cancer Consultant and as a Faculty in Health Care Management!
As per your quote above, work towards the satisfaction of these PAN/GUTKA users. Having worked with the Maharashtra government in imposing the Gutka ban in Maharashtra in 2002, let me tell you all is NOT well. Banning something may give rise to smuggling it and may start a chain of other offenses. An addict may go to any level to fulfill his addiction. I never feel the law is the answer to this question - if it were, why would our Minister of Farming lose his jaw partially to Oral Cancer? So this habit/addiction is there in ALL 3 Classes of our society. Hence you find even Mantralaya colored in red.
Showing pictures of ORAL Cancers is Negative Motivation and may curb the practice to only some extent. If they don't care about death, why would they care about stopping their habit? Their typical argument is, "Ek din sabko marna hai."
In my opinion, we managers should try and change their ATTITUDE. Their attitude towards themselves, their work, and their Life. Most of these people develop this habit to fight emotional stress, and once they start, they get hooked. Positive counseling, motivation, bringing happiness into their life, and interest in their work could work miracles.
Satisfy their needs, and they would not need pan-gutka. A man with a full stomach will never steal. For a change - why not start rewarding the person who demonstrates regression from his habit and lauding him publicly in the office? Or even putting up his photo if he gives up this habit. This may attract the likes, and your organization may become a legend.
After all, what is the ultimate goal of any organization? Isn't it the GOAL!
P.N. Since this is a very sensitive issue to me and one close to my heart, I would appreciate it if you could give me feedback in case you practice my humble suggestion and get success.
I hope you become the master! (as per your quote)
Dr. V.S. Rege
From India, Mumbai
May I take the liberty of commenting on this problem both as an Oral Cancer Consultant and as a Faculty in Health Care Management!
As per your quote above, work towards the satisfaction of these PAN/GUTKA users. Having worked with the Maharashtra government in imposing the Gutka ban in Maharashtra in 2002, let me tell you all is NOT well. Banning something may give rise to smuggling it and may start a chain of other offenses. An addict may go to any level to fulfill his addiction. I never feel the law is the answer to this question - if it were, why would our Minister of Farming lose his jaw partially to Oral Cancer? So this habit/addiction is there in ALL 3 Classes of our society. Hence you find even Mantralaya colored in red.
Showing pictures of ORAL Cancers is Negative Motivation and may curb the practice to only some extent. If they don't care about death, why would they care about stopping their habit? Their typical argument is, "Ek din sabko marna hai."
In my opinion, we managers should try and change their ATTITUDE. Their attitude towards themselves, their work, and their Life. Most of these people develop this habit to fight emotional stress, and once they start, they get hooked. Positive counseling, motivation, bringing happiness into their life, and interest in their work could work miracles.
Satisfy their needs, and they would not need pan-gutka. A man with a full stomach will never steal. For a change - why not start rewarding the person who demonstrates regression from his habit and lauding him publicly in the office? Or even putting up his photo if he gives up this habit. This may attract the likes, and your organization may become a legend.
After all, what is the ultimate goal of any organization? Isn't it the GOAL!
P.N. Since this is a very sensitive issue to me and one close to my heart, I would appreciate it if you could give me feedback in case you practice my humble suggestion and get success.
I hope you become the master! (as per your quote)
Dr. V.S. Rege
From India, Mumbai
By the way, smoking tobacco is an equally dangerous and disgraceful habit, isn't it? Practiced by many of our colleagues in all fields, including medicine. What if a paan chewer asks you tomorrow, "Saab, how is it that XYZ saab is smoking and polluting the air when you are giving me a lecture on my paan chewing?"
It's heartening to note that countries all over are signing the Anti-Tobacco treaty for a smoke-free environment. Let's get together and eradicate the menace of tobacco-related diseases altogether. I would love to die for a tobacco-free world. And let's not worry about the workers in the tobacco industry; they can be taught to roll agarbattis instead of bidis and cigars. Thanks!
Dr. V.S. Rege
From India, Mumbai
It's heartening to note that countries all over are signing the Anti-Tobacco treaty for a smoke-free environment. Let's get together and eradicate the menace of tobacco-related diseases altogether. I would love to die for a tobacco-free world. And let's not worry about the workers in the tobacco industry; they can be taught to roll agarbattis instead of bidis and cigars. Thanks!
Dr. V.S. Rege
From India, Mumbai
Dear DSP1402,
Had it not been posted by you, I might have thought it to be a humorous piece.
Yes, indeed, it is a big problem, but manageable up to the extent of making people refrain from dirtying the office premises.
It is difficult to make people abstain or quit the Pan/gutkha habit; as nicotine is a much more powerful addiction than even alcohol.
A few dreadful pictures will only have a very short effect. See, even the horrible pictures that are now printed on every cigarette pack sold in India have not deterred smokers.
It is a different thing that you can persuade a friend - as cited by one of our members - to refrain from this habit; but the real credit goes not to the scariness of pictures, but on the sweetness and strength of friendship. In fact, this is the only possible cure - Hope Dr. V.S. Rege would agree.
Simply educating them does not work. I have tried this by:
- Holding seminars, talks on "No Smoking Day," and on other occasions,
- Distributed pamphlets with pictures,
- Posters inside the plant/workplace,
- Articles in in-house Occupational Health magazines and other house magazines,
- Having a few sessions over the years by the "Ayushman Bhavo" organization, etc.
Do you think people do not know? They just do not care, or are not strong enough to withstand the addiction.
The only method that worked during my tenure in a large manufacturing plant; that too partially, was to have doctors from Medical Posts, Health centers, and Occupational Health Services Center inside the plant, to hold camps for medical examination of addicts, and demonstrate to the employees the following:
- How the mucous membrane inside their cheeks has changed or thickened, and
- How their mouth does not open fully - in a healthy mouth all the fingers of a hand, when placed together, can enter up to the second knuckle; whereas in a habituated person's mouth, the fingers can enter only up to the first knuckle, with difficulty.
- Ask the employees to try it; it is really scary when you demonstrate it along with a 'healthy' person alongside.
- Smokers were shown their "lung function" test and compared with non-smokers.
Another useful method is to create "opinion leaders" and friends among their colleagues, who can keep a watch to motivate such employees. They are especially effective when you find people having the despicable practice of talking with their mouth full of saliva and gutkha.
Counseling the family of the employee, too, works to some extent.
Regards
From India, Delhi
Had it not been posted by you, I might have thought it to be a humorous piece.
Yes, indeed, it is a big problem, but manageable up to the extent of making people refrain from dirtying the office premises.
It is difficult to make people abstain or quit the Pan/gutkha habit; as nicotine is a much more powerful addiction than even alcohol.
A few dreadful pictures will only have a very short effect. See, even the horrible pictures that are now printed on every cigarette pack sold in India have not deterred smokers.
It is a different thing that you can persuade a friend - as cited by one of our members - to refrain from this habit; but the real credit goes not to the scariness of pictures, but on the sweetness and strength of friendship. In fact, this is the only possible cure - Hope Dr. V.S. Rege would agree.
Simply educating them does not work. I have tried this by:
- Holding seminars, talks on "No Smoking Day," and on other occasions,
- Distributed pamphlets with pictures,
- Posters inside the plant/workplace,
- Articles in in-house Occupational Health magazines and other house magazines,
- Having a few sessions over the years by the "Ayushman Bhavo" organization, etc.
Do you think people do not know? They just do not care, or are not strong enough to withstand the addiction.
The only method that worked during my tenure in a large manufacturing plant; that too partially, was to have doctors from Medical Posts, Health centers, and Occupational Health Services Center inside the plant, to hold camps for medical examination of addicts, and demonstrate to the employees the following:
- How the mucous membrane inside their cheeks has changed or thickened, and
- How their mouth does not open fully - in a healthy mouth all the fingers of a hand, when placed together, can enter up to the second knuckle; whereas in a habituated person's mouth, the fingers can enter only up to the first knuckle, with difficulty.
- Ask the employees to try it; it is really scary when you demonstrate it along with a 'healthy' person alongside.
- Smokers were shown their "lung function" test and compared with non-smokers.
Another useful method is to create "opinion leaders" and friends among their colleagues, who can keep a watch to motivate such employees. They are especially effective when you find people having the despicable practice of talking with their mouth full of saliva and gutkha.
Counseling the family of the employee, too, works to some extent.
Regards
From India, Delhi
Hello, I think one way of solving this issue is by first rewarding those employees who do not have gutka and pan masala by simply giving them an extra ₹100-200 per month and deducting a minimum of say ₹50 from those who have gutka and pan masala.
Another simple way of rewarding and encouraging them to quit is by offering them an egg and a glass of milk or tea for free from your side if they do not have masala. Once the staff is cured of this problem, it will be easy for the visitors and others to be discouraged, as the staff itself will make sure that nobody spits in that area. Try it, it works.
From India, Delhi
Another simple way of rewarding and encouraging them to quit is by offering them an egg and a glass of milk or tea for free from your side if they do not have masala. Once the staff is cured of this problem, it will be easy for the visitors and others to be discouraged, as the staff itself will make sure that nobody spits in that area. Try it, it works.
From India, Delhi
We have also faced this type of problem with chewing Gutka, Pan, and Tobacco on the premises. We are implementing strict security checks at the gate to prevent people from bringing such materials onto the premises. A Security Supervisor has been assigned to conduct random checks on both employees and contract workers.
If anyone has a perfect solution, please share.
Rakesh
From India, Mumbai
If anyone has a perfect solution, please share.
Rakesh
From India, Mumbai
Dear All,
Thank you all for giving me your time and guiding me to overcome this problem. A special thanks to Dr. V. S. Rege and Mr. Rajkumar for sharing their experiences and thoughts with me. I will surely try my level best to follow your suggestions and ideas and will update you with the results of this.
Thanks everybody. :)
Please let me know if you need any further assistance.
From India, Jodhpur
Thank you all for giving me your time and guiding me to overcome this problem. A special thanks to Dr. V. S. Rege and Mr. Rajkumar for sharing their experiences and thoughts with me. I will surely try my level best to follow your suggestions and ideas and will update you with the results of this.
Thanks everybody. :)
Please let me know if you need any further assistance.
From India, Jodhpur
Dear,
Khairnarravi has given you the best solution. It's the most effective answer. Security checks, putting up posters are temporary solutions, but putting up small tiles of gods and goddesses will be the best solution ever which will completely solve your problem. It is an inexpensive (better than putting up CCTV) method but if your management permits. Let me tell you a fact about this.
The problem of spitting/urinating (pardon me for this) on walls was a huge problem in Mumbai. People tried every other solution to stop this problem but nothing worked.
One smart fellow came up with an amazing solution which almost completely eradicated the problem of spitting/urinating on walls. Now everyone in Mumbai has made it a practice to put up small tiles with pictures of gods and goddesses on private/public walls outside their house.
You can also try it!!!!!
Regards,
From India, Pune
Khairnarravi has given you the best solution. It's the most effective answer. Security checks, putting up posters are temporary solutions, but putting up small tiles of gods and goddesses will be the best solution ever which will completely solve your problem. It is an inexpensive (better than putting up CCTV) method but if your management permits. Let me tell you a fact about this.
The problem of spitting/urinating (pardon me for this) on walls was a huge problem in Mumbai. People tried every other solution to stop this problem but nothing worked.
One smart fellow came up with an amazing solution which almost completely eradicated the problem of spitting/urinating on walls. Now everyone in Mumbai has made it a practice to put up small tiles with pictures of gods and goddesses on private/public walls outside their house.
You can also try it!!!!!
Regards,
From India, Pune
Hey, i was facing the same problem in ma office so ive put cameras everywhere and th eproblem solved . Try it
From India, New Delhi
From India, New Delhi
First, you will have to accept that such problems cannot be addressed in a short period. This will take a year or two as well. Make a list of employees - known/suspected/habitual/occasional users of tobacco/pan/ghutka. Focus on the employees whom you think can be counseled and converted into non-users easily. By doing this, you will get rid of about 40-60% of the problem. Your persistent counseling coupled with awareness posters/short films will solve the problem over time.
Regards,
Nitin Asalkar
Pune
Regards,
Nitin Asalkar
Pune
Dear DSP,
Apart from fining the culprits, you can also arrange for their respective bosses to send a stern email to them, warning that further repetition of such behavior will result in strict action being taken against the officer. Emails from bosses generally have a good impact.
Moreover, even though it might sound a bit harsh, the name of the employee can be displayed on the HR notice board for being a workplace miscreant.
From India, Mumbai
Apart from fining the culprits, you can also arrange for their respective bosses to send a stern email to them, warning that further repetition of such behavior will result in strict action being taken against the officer. Emails from bosses generally have a good impact.
Moreover, even though it might sound a bit harsh, the name of the employee can be displayed on the HR notice board for being a workplace miscreant.
From India, Mumbai
Hi,
If you are not just looking at the spitting problem but also focusing on your employees' health and safety, then just putting up posters and conducting a seminar will not help. You are looking at completely changing your employees' behavior, which is difficult.
Just check out Kurt Lewin's theory on change management:
Please check this link:
[Lewin's freeze phases](http://changingminds.org/disciplines/change_management/lewin_change/lewin_change.htm)
From India, Pune
If you are not just looking at the spitting problem but also focusing on your employees' health and safety, then just putting up posters and conducting a seminar will not help. You are looking at completely changing your employees' behavior, which is difficult.
Just check out Kurt Lewin's theory on change management:
Please check this link:
[Lewin's freeze phases](http://changingminds.org/disciplines/change_management/lewin_change/lewin_change.htm)
From India, Pune
You need to control this kind of nuisance as it affects the health and hygiene of other innocent employees. Keep some people slightly away from spitting places, ask them to observe, so that you can catch them red-handed, and take strict action against such defaulters. If you can install some cameras, it will be even better to catch the people in the act. Once you are strict with a few employees, others will be disciplined. The only way to maintain discipline is to "MONITOR, REVIEW, AND TAKE SUITABLE ACTION."
B. Dakshina Murty
From India, Hyderabad
B. Dakshina Murty
From India, Hyderabad
After initially publicizing the policy of "NO TOBACCO FOR CHEWING AND SMOKING," implement the following:
1. Prohibit the entry of chewing/smoking stuff into the organization by carrying out frisking at the gate thoroughly. There is a possibility of stiff resistance. Alternatively, demarcate a space as "SMOKER ZONE/SPITTING ZONE" where the employees can smoke and spit in the spittoons. You can build a chimney in the shape of a bare chest/skull, etc., to instill a sense of fear. It may involve some money but is worth the effort.
2. It would be beneficial to have counseling sessions with the employees and perhaps bring in reputable local doctors whom the workers trust to explain the ill effects of tobacco and methods to quit.
Please let me know if you need further assistance.
1. Prohibit the entry of chewing/smoking stuff into the organization by carrying out frisking at the gate thoroughly. There is a possibility of stiff resistance. Alternatively, demarcate a space as "SMOKER ZONE/SPITTING ZONE" where the employees can smoke and spit in the spittoons. You can build a chimney in the shape of a bare chest/skull, etc., to instill a sense of fear. It may involve some money but is worth the effort.
2. It would be beneficial to have counseling sessions with the employees and perhaps bring in reputable local doctors whom the workers trust to explain the ill effects of tobacco and methods to quit.
Please let me know if you need further assistance.
You can display posters on various corners of the factory premises, or you have to start a health awareness campaign regarding the harmful effects of smoking, chewing tobacco, and gutka.
Additionally, you can identify the worst spitting spots where every time after cleaning, you should place a picture of a god or a religious symbol to discourage spitting in those areas.
From India, Dehra Dun
Additionally, you can identify the worst spitting spots where every time after cleaning, you should place a picture of a god or a religious symbol to discourage spitting in those areas.
From India, Dehra Dun
hi DSP First install aCCTV camera u will get to know the culprit , stick their photo on the notice board with some fuuny lines to make them realise. it works..
From India, Indore
From India, Indore
Dear,
We were also facing the same problem in the past at our factory. The solution is to tighten security at the factory gate. Checking of each and every employee should be done at the factory gate by the strict security guards. Even for females, checking should be done by female security guards at the gate in a designated cabin, etc. Afterwards, place some HR employees inside the plant and shop floor to randomly check employees at any time (surprisingly) on a daily basis. Ask them to make a list of defaulters and take disciplinary action against them. We are also following the same procedure regularly, and it has proven to be very effective.
Before implementing the above measures, issue a circular stating that from now on, the above practices will be enforced, and any defaulter will face strict disciplinary action. However, avoid mentioning surprise checks on a daily basis in the circular to prevent awareness among employees.
I hope this information helps you.
Bharti
From India, Vijayawada
We were also facing the same problem in the past at our factory. The solution is to tighten security at the factory gate. Checking of each and every employee should be done at the factory gate by the strict security guards. Even for females, checking should be done by female security guards at the gate in a designated cabin, etc. Afterwards, place some HR employees inside the plant and shop floor to randomly check employees at any time (surprisingly) on a daily basis. Ask them to make a list of defaulters and take disciplinary action against them. We are also following the same procedure regularly, and it has proven to be very effective.
Before implementing the above measures, issue a circular stating that from now on, the above practices will be enforced, and any defaulter will face strict disciplinary action. However, avoid mentioning surprise checks on a daily basis in the circular to prevent awareness among employees.
I hope this information helps you.
Bharti
From India, Vijayawada
Dear friend,
We too faced this problem of Pan and Ghutka. We found a very unusual solution to this problem. We started hanging god's pictures in the places where employees used to spit. Now we have found a considerable reduction in it. Maybe you could try it too.
From India, Manipal
We too faced this problem of Pan and Ghutka. We found a very unusual solution to this problem. We started hanging god's pictures in the places where employees used to spit. Now we have found a considerable reduction in it. Maybe you could try it too.
From India, Manipal
Dear friend,
We too faced this problem of Pan and Ghutka. We found a very unusual solution to this problem. We started hanging god's pictures in the places where employees used to spit. Now we have found a considerable reduction in it. Maybe you could try it too. :-D
From India, Manipal
We too faced this problem of Pan and Ghutka. We found a very unusual solution to this problem. We started hanging god's pictures in the places where employees used to spit. Now we have found a considerable reduction in it. Maybe you could try it too. :-D
From India, Manipal
Just awarded the persons who were addicts of it. But now, after your efforts, they have left this habit (even if a single person has left it) in a big training program or meeting and insult the person (make them feel guilty) who is still chewing it in public. Have patience; then definitely the problem will be resolved.
From India, Calcutta
From India, Calcutta
You can't stop anyone from engaging in such activities, but you can take action on your end. Implement a policy that balances kindness and discipline. Recognize the best employee for their exemplary behavior in a cultured manner. Address the worst employee's behavior with a focus on improvement and cultural awareness.
During inspections, if an employee is found engaging in inappropriate activities, suspend them for a few hours or a day, and document the incident in their personal file for future reference during performance evaluations. Consider informing the employee's family about the misconduct through a formal communication sent via post or courier to emphasize the seriousness of the situation.
Manager - HRD
From India, Varanasi
During inspections, if an employee is found engaging in inappropriate activities, suspend them for a few hours or a day, and document the incident in their personal file for future reference during performance evaluations. Consider informing the employee's family about the misconduct through a formal communication sent via post or courier to emphasize the seriousness of the situation.
Manager - HRD
From India, Varanasi
Dear DSP,
Believe me, such nonsense is generally done by the low-level workers. I mean, you should first check and alert your security team and housekeeping team, who are outsourced employees (vendors). They generally split within the premises; hence, inform them that the culprit will be fined a huge amount, and we will take disciplinary action against him/her.
Vishal Vyas
From India, Bangalore
Believe me, such nonsense is generally done by the low-level workers. I mean, you should first check and alert your security team and housekeeping team, who are outsourced employees (vendors). They generally split within the premises; hence, inform them that the culprit will be fined a huge amount, and we will take disciplinary action against him/her.
Vishal Vyas
From India, Bangalore
Dear DSP,
It is one of the major problems everywhere in any organization today. As the head of the organization, I have started a tight check at all entry and exit points, including lunch boxes. However, we have faced another problem: workers started bringing Gutka in their undergarments, socks, shoes, etc., which is again a great concern. Furthermore, we have displayed a number of posters on walls about the post-effects of Gutka, conducted training and counseling sessions, and implemented awards and fines for employees and workers. If caught by security and HR staff, the same worker or employee is responsible for washing the spot. These are a few measures we have adopted. While things have improved, it is not totally resolved, as the transport vehicles' drivers and helpers, who are outsiders and change regularly, sometimes make our lives miserable. The only solution is continuous effort.
Regards,
Raj Kumar Panda
From India, Raurkela
It is one of the major problems everywhere in any organization today. As the head of the organization, I have started a tight check at all entry and exit points, including lunch boxes. However, we have faced another problem: workers started bringing Gutka in their undergarments, socks, shoes, etc., which is again a great concern. Furthermore, we have displayed a number of posters on walls about the post-effects of Gutka, conducted training and counseling sessions, and implemented awards and fines for employees and workers. If caught by security and HR staff, the same worker or employee is responsible for washing the spot. These are a few measures we have adopted. While things have improved, it is not totally resolved, as the transport vehicles' drivers and helpers, who are outsiders and change regularly, sometimes make our lives miserable. The only solution is continuous effort.
Regards,
Raj Kumar Panda
From India, Raurkela
You need to take very strict actions against the culprit, for example termination of employment....
From India, Anklesvar
From India, Anklesvar
Dear DSP,
We too face the same problem in Gulf countries as well. This habit of chewing can be diverted if we are able to inculcate the habit of chanting some mantras and understanding the benefits of chanting. At least, the fear of God may reduce the quantity of intake.
Regards,
Sankar
From Oman, Sohar
We too face the same problem in Gulf countries as well. This habit of chewing can be diverted if we are able to inculcate the habit of chanting some mantras and understanding the benefits of chanting. At least, the fear of God may reduce the quantity of intake.
Regards,
Sankar
From Oman, Sohar
Dear DSP,
I pity our 'gods' - poor things have to 'lie low' on the walls to stop a habit that will send us faster to them - 'Gods are stooping to conquer'. CCTVs, fines, sacking, please, but not Gods - A bank tried it out, worked for a week, and after that, they were spitting on the deities. Yes, large posters of oral cancer effects displayed all over may reduce the chewers, but the hardcore will remain so.
Regards,
Col Jude
From India, Bangalore
I pity our 'gods' - poor things have to 'lie low' on the walls to stop a habit that will send us faster to them - 'Gods are stooping to conquer'. CCTVs, fines, sacking, please, but not Gods - A bank tried it out, worked for a week, and after that, they were spitting on the deities. Yes, large posters of oral cancer effects displayed all over may reduce the chewers, but the hardcore will remain so.
Regards,
Col Jude
From India, Bangalore
Dear DSP,
You are most welcome. I'm glad you liked my suggestions. Installing CCTVs and having security check-ups are like using AK47 for some erring children. Look at the enormous costs and manpower that will be wasted by an organization just to tackle a "gutka/pan" problem where the culprit spends only one rupee on his habit.
I agree with Col. Jude. It's not proper to make these people spit on gods, and even if they do not spit on gods, they will do so elsewhere. The solution is not to generate this spit. To stop a habit is to break it.
I again reiterate, the problem can be solved mainly by changing the attitude of these workers. I hate the terminology "Low Level"; even the so-called high-level people stoop to even much lower levels - that of spitting out of their BMWs' and Mercs' right on Marine Drive. Change the mindset, and the problem will disappear without spending 10 paise. As mentioned by me earlier, use positive distraction, not the negative one. All the Best.
Dr. V.S. Rege
From India, Mumbai
You are most welcome. I'm glad you liked my suggestions. Installing CCTVs and having security check-ups are like using AK47 for some erring children. Look at the enormous costs and manpower that will be wasted by an organization just to tackle a "gutka/pan" problem where the culprit spends only one rupee on his habit.
I agree with Col. Jude. It's not proper to make these people spit on gods, and even if they do not spit on gods, they will do so elsewhere. The solution is not to generate this spit. To stop a habit is to break it.
I again reiterate, the problem can be solved mainly by changing the attitude of these workers. I hate the terminology "Low Level"; even the so-called high-level people stoop to even much lower levels - that of spitting out of their BMWs' and Mercs' right on Marine Drive. Change the mindset, and the problem will disappear without spending 10 paise. As mentioned by me earlier, use positive distraction, not the negative one. All the Best.
Dr. V.S. Rege
From India, Mumbai
My dear,
It is very perennial problem which we are facing in all public places there is no control but in the organization we can do it by following ways :-
manu
From India
It is very perennial problem which we are facing in all public places there is no control but in the organization we can do it by following ways :-
- Intense publicity of consequences’ of using tobacco by posters lectures and audio visual demonstrations in workplace, canteen ,rest room ,community hall ,residential area, club and parking places .
- Display a hording / banner in prominent place in the main gate “tobacco strictly prohibited”
- Involves shop floor supervisors (including contractor) guards, security & safety staff to watch and educate the employees.
- Extensively circulate the message that nobody will have tobacco in any form in the premises it will be physically checked by security staff at the time of entry , if they found he will fined of Rs. 100/200/300 .
- The same amount pass on to person who had caught that user/carrier you may add same amount to make attractive the scheme.
- Be firm and fare, constitute a committee with the help of HODs to monitoring and implementing the scheme in their section and make them accountable.
- Keep close watch.
manu
From India
Hi friend,
This might be a little harsh, but it may work out. Here it goes:
1) Introduce the policy of Code of Conduct highlighting "Spitting in the premises" as one of the major concerns.
2) Put up posters in the building premises wherever possible (in the vicinity of the employees).
3) Introduce three methods of giving punishment:
a) Fine the employee
b) Suspend the employee from work
c) Terminate the employee.
Trust me, if an employee is not following the rules and is terminated for indiscipline, it will have a huge impact on the employees. Before implementing these plans, also consult your company lawyer about the potential consequences. I guess this will work out.
Jiffy
From India, Mumbai
This might be a little harsh, but it may work out. Here it goes:
1) Introduce the policy of Code of Conduct highlighting "Spitting in the premises" as one of the major concerns.
2) Put up posters in the building premises wherever possible (in the vicinity of the employees).
3) Introduce three methods of giving punishment:
a) Fine the employee
b) Suspend the employee from work
c) Terminate the employee.
Trust me, if an employee is not following the rules and is terminated for indiscipline, it will have a huge impact on the employees. Before implementing these plans, also consult your company lawyer about the potential consequences. I guess this will work out.
Jiffy
From India, Mumbai
Installing a spy camera will be ineffective even if inexpensive because this would require you to place personnel to monitor the camera recordings 24/7, which may be practically cumbersome. However, deducting one day's salary as a penalty may act as a remedy to your woes.
Sikka
From Korea
Sikka
From Korea
Hi mahesh , is there any kind of restriction for an employee to carry the cigarettes to the floor ? We are into BPO
From India, Bangalore
From India, Bangalore
We are planning to implement the ISO 27001 policies. As per the hygiene issue, I asked the employees not to carry any pan, gutka, or cigarette pack. However, there was a huge issue raised by an employee that a cigarette pack can be carried to the floor because he smokes outside. Management has asked me to come up with concrete policies and evidence to support my stand on the issue. Please advise me on this matter.
From India, Bangalore
From India, Bangalore
I think the best way is to use "Gandhigiri." Remember in Munnabhai? Get that particular place cleaned whenever it gets dirty. Continue the same thing for a couple of days. The culprit would realize his mistake sooner or later.
From India, Delhi
From India, Delhi
Dear,
Try to capture a photo of a person while sneezing, then develop the picture and display it on your notice board or keep a special board for it. Place the sneezing picture next to some images of mouth cancer and write some touching words like "Let us all pray to God that this person does not develop mouth cancer." Then mention that more pictures will be added whenever we receive new sneezing photos. This will help others become more aware automatically.
From India, Madras
Try to capture a photo of a person while sneezing, then develop the picture and display it on your notice board or keep a special board for it. Place the sneezing picture next to some images of mouth cancer and write some touching words like "Let us all pray to God that this person does not develop mouth cancer." Then mention that more pictures will be added whenever we receive new sneezing photos. This will help others become more aware automatically.
From India, Madras
Happy Diwali to all!
I am pained to see here that so many high-level HR people, instead of understanding the problem, want to solve the problem by reprimanding the spitters. We need to accept that this problem is not only with base-level workers (I hate to call them low-level people - after all, they are humans too, with emotions, just like their HR managers and CEOs) but also with many of us who may be smoking and throwing cigarettes, eating in public places, and throwing the waste anywhere. Just because these people spit in your posh offices, we address the problem here. How many of you really follow or make your families follow 'NO LITTERING' in public places policy? Next time you litter a public place, be ready to pay the fine yourself and then talk of posting and punishing your staff.
As a healthcare HR faculty and as a cancer consultant, I once again reiterate to you all - 'CHANGE THEIR ATTITUDE - LOVINGLY, and you will see that they have stopped the habit completely.'
Please keep your security and CCTV camera money for their welfare.
Regards to all,
Dr. Vivekanand S. Rege
From India, Mumbai
I am pained to see here that so many high-level HR people, instead of understanding the problem, want to solve the problem by reprimanding the spitters. We need to accept that this problem is not only with base-level workers (I hate to call them low-level people - after all, they are humans too, with emotions, just like their HR managers and CEOs) but also with many of us who may be smoking and throwing cigarettes, eating in public places, and throwing the waste anywhere. Just because these people spit in your posh offices, we address the problem here. How many of you really follow or make your families follow 'NO LITTERING' in public places policy? Next time you litter a public place, be ready to pay the fine yourself and then talk of posting and punishing your staff.
As a healthcare HR faculty and as a cancer consultant, I once again reiterate to you all - 'CHANGE THEIR ATTITUDE - LOVINGLY, and you will see that they have stopped the habit completely.'
Please keep your security and CCTV camera money for their welfare.
Regards to all,
Dr. Vivekanand S. Rege
From India, Mumbai
Thank you, everybody, for all your support and concern. I would like to update all of you regarding the latest conditions.
First of all, I called a meeting with all the HODs to make them aware of this problem and how these habits are affecting the employees' health and productivity. There should be a way to address this issue. After lengthy discussions, we concluded that it is our responsibility to make our employees aware that they are harming themselves.
Each HOD was tasked with overseeing their departmental staff and observing their activities more closely. They identified and corrected individuals involved in behaviors such as spitting. A few days before Diwali, I organized a meeting for the staff and their families, inviting doctors and NGO representatives to conduct one-on-one sessions and routine check-ups for all employees. Importantly, the doctors had a list of individuals using pan/Gutkha and effectively communicated the serious health effects of these habits to both the families and the employees.
This gathering was a success, and I observed positive changes in the employees. While this problem is 60% resolved, I understand that achieving 100% resolution will take time.
Thank you to everybody for their guidance and support. I am truly grateful to be part of such a great family.
From India, Jodhpur
First of all, I called a meeting with all the HODs to make them aware of this problem and how these habits are affecting the employees' health and productivity. There should be a way to address this issue. After lengthy discussions, we concluded that it is our responsibility to make our employees aware that they are harming themselves.
Each HOD was tasked with overseeing their departmental staff and observing their activities more closely. They identified and corrected individuals involved in behaviors such as spitting. A few days before Diwali, I organized a meeting for the staff and their families, inviting doctors and NGO representatives to conduct one-on-one sessions and routine check-ups for all employees. Importantly, the doctors had a list of individuals using pan/Gutkha and effectively communicated the serious health effects of these habits to both the families and the employees.
This gathering was a success, and I observed positive changes in the employees. While this problem is 60% resolved, I understand that achieving 100% resolution will take time.
Thank you to everybody for their guidance and support. I am truly grateful to be part of such a great family.
From India, Jodhpur
yes...cameras no by management.Fines done many time .....but i was looking for a permanent solution.
From India, Jodhpur
From India, Jodhpur
This problem is prevalent all over. In spite of conducting awareness programmes, doctors have observed that people are indifferent. It is very difficult to change mentality. We are becoming very much indisciplined. Stringent rules to curb this menace are the need of the hour.
i need to make a presentation on "Influencing the workers for Reducing the usage of alcohol & tobacco". Please provide me me any Presenatation...its urgent dear frnds.
From India, Delhi
From India, Delhi
Hye Dsp............this has been a big problem with me too.............its an addiction..and we have tried different options..but couldnt cope with that....Just one thing worked...we have kept lots of dust bin/waste bin /drums in the different areas of work premises exclusively for this purpose.now to a large extent the problem has been solved...try this, it might work for you too...
From Pakistan, Karachi
From Pakistan, Karachi
Dear Friend,
You should instruct the security/facilities staff to conduct frequent checks around the premises, especially in the area where you are facing this problem. I am confident that your team will be able to identify the culprits. If they are discovered, provide a thorough explanation of the misconduct and explain the negative impact on their health and the organization. If this approach does not yield results, you have the option to dismiss them from the company immediately under disciplinary action.
Thank you.
From India, Hyderabad
You should instruct the security/facilities staff to conduct frequent checks around the premises, especially in the area where you are facing this problem. I am confident that your team will be able to identify the culprits. If they are discovered, provide a thorough explanation of the misconduct and explain the negative impact on their health and the organization. If this approach does not yield results, you have the option to dismiss them from the company immediately under disciplinary action.
Thank you.
From India, Hyderabad
Dear DSP,
These are all problems that my company is facing as well. I have tightened security measures by having security personnel check all employees at the gate. However, despite this, some individuals continue to chew tobacco. To address this issue, we now announce and reward employees who do not chew tobacco on the factory premises at the end of each month. This initiative has been successful in improving the situation.
Thank you.
From India, Madras
These are all problems that my company is facing as well. I have tightened security measures by having security personnel check all employees at the gate. However, despite this, some individuals continue to chew tobacco. To address this issue, we now announce and reward employees who do not chew tobacco on the factory premises at the end of each month. This initiative has been successful in improving the situation.
Thank you.
From India, Madras
Gathering data for an AI comment.... Sending emails to relevant members...
Looking for something specific? - Join & Be Part Of Our Community and get connected with the right people who can help. Our AI-powered platform provides real-time fact-checking, peer-reviewed insights, and a vast historical knowledge base to support your search.