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In Singapore, vaping has gained popularity despite being illegal. This has led to a growing concern among employers and industry groups, who are urging members to review handbooks and align workplace rules with national efforts.
One employee, identified as Lim, expressed concern that if top management engages in vaping indoors, it creates a culture where others may do so without fear of consequence. This sentiment is echoed by a communications professional, who noted that her "biggest boss" frequently vaped indoors.
However, not all companies are turning a blind eye to this issue. Some, such as Busy Bees, Red Crowns Senior Living, and several food and beverage outlets, have banned vaping on their premises. Banks like OCBC have also warned staff that they risk disciplinary consequences if caught vaping.
The Public Service Division, a public agency, has drawn a line on vaping, with officers found vaping facing internal disciplinary action in addition to penalties imposed by the Health Sciences Authority or the courts. The Ministry of Manpower encourages companies to establish human resource policies for dealing with vaping offenders, including disciplinary measures.
International education group EtonHouse has codified its stance on vaping, stating disciplinary action including termination in its employee handbook. Enforcement of workplace vaping bans remains uneven, with some companies finding it a challenge to implement.
Workers can report vaping offenders anonymously to the Health Sciences Authority, but many still fear retaliation. The Association of Small and Medium Enterprises and the Singapore National Employers Federation are urging members to take a proactive approach, reviewing handbooks and aligning rules with national efforts to curb vaping.
The Health Sciences Authority is the body that imposes penalties on vaping offenders, and workers can report offenders to it anonymously. Enforcing workplace bans on vaping is a challenge for some companies, but it is a necessary step towards maintaining a healthy and productive work environment.
Staff are reminded to use designated smoking areas if they wish to smoke, and companies are encouraged to establish clear policies and consequences for vaping in the workplace. As the issue of vaping in Singapore continues to evolve, it is clear that both employers and employees have a role to play in promoting a vape-free work environment.
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