How Can I Address Senior Staff Smoking Indoors Without Causing Conflict?

Hi all,

I am working in an organization where some of my senior staff are smoking inside the office. The office is fully air-conditioned with no ventilation for smoke to dissipate. Since I am subordinate to my seniors, how can I directly ask them to stop smoking inside the office? I am working in a tobacco-based company, but I am in a division that is not connected to tobacco in any way.

My issue is that I am experiencing irritation when others smoke in front of me within the office premises, and even the toilet rooms are not an exception. Is there any legal recourse to solve this problem, or can anyone advise me on how to deal with my superiors psychologically?

Regards, Sriguru

Dear Mr. Sriguru,

According to my knowledge, I don't think there is any law which prohibits an employee from smoking inside the office (as long as it's a factory, yes, there is a law). Prohibition of smoking in an office depends on the company's rules and regulations. You can issue a circular stating that anyone found smoking inside the office premises will be heavily fined (also, charge a fine from them). Then slowly and gradually, they will stop smoking. There is a saying, "Slow and steady wins the race," so changes won't happen immediately. You will have to wait for them to change. The changes will happen slowly and gradually.

Regards,
Ankit
09869851356

Hi Sriguru,

I think we need to implement Gandhi Giri by enlisting the help of some HR members. Let's place "No Smoking" templates in smoking areas and include some catchy slogans as well. I believe this approach will be effective.

Thank you.

Hello,

There is an act passed by the Health Minister which prohibits and fines employees for smoking in the company. The said fine starts at Rs. 1000/-

When it comes to mind games, what you can do is post a large picture that states "Passive smoking kills." By doing this, you send a clear message about your aversion towards smoking and smokers. However, make sure that the picture you choose is either funny, comical, or sarcastic while still delivering a strong and direct message. This way, you can be humorous and, at the same time, hit the bullseye without offending people in the wrong way.

Thank you,
Octavious

Dear Mr. Sriguru,

According to my knowledge, I don't think there is any law that prohibits an employee from smoking inside the office (as long as it's a factory, yes, there is a law). Prohibition of smoking in an office depends on the company's rules and regulations. You can issue a circular stating that anyone found smoking inside the office premises will be heavily fined (also charge a fine from them). Then, slowly and gradually, they will stop smoking. There is a saying, "Slow and steady wins the race," so changes won't happen immediately; you will have to wait for them to change. The changes will happen slowly and gradually.

Regards,
Ankit
09869851356

Thank you, sir. Since I am a junior staff, I cannot go and ask for any circular. Okay, sir, let me talk to my co-staff about this, but they are not that much bold. Anyway, thank you again, sir.

Thank you, sir. Since I am a junior staff, I cannot go and ask for any circular. Okay, sir, let me talk to my co-staff about this, but they are not that much bold. Anyway, thank you again, sir.

Sriguru

Dear Siriguru,

Very interesting. I saw your posts, and you received replies suggesting that you are the boss!!

1. Start with your equals. If anyone smokes very close to you, tell them, "Sorry, please smoke outside." Cough. Cough. Cough.

2. With bosses, you cannot be blunt, but you can request them. However, there is a danger if you are working in a tobacco-based firm. They may not appreciate your approach.

3. Look for a change. That is the best solution I can think of.

Siva

Put up a sign prohibiting smoking and include a provision stating that those found guilty will be penalized, such as deductions from their salary or marking them as absent.

Sumit

Hi Sriguru,

If you say you are a junior staff, then firstly try to approach your Reporting Manager and address the issue to him/her so that he can try to sort it out at his level.

Secondly, try to figure out a place that can be marked as a smoking area and can be designated as a smoking zone, maybe somewhere in the cafeteria or the premises of the building.

In any case, you have every right to stand up against this if you are facing health concerns. Once you start, I can assure you that there will be people to support your initiative on this.

Keep a board in your chamber or where you work "Cigarette is injurious to others' health."

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