Smoke-free workplaces in three European countries – Challenges and solutions
P Sandström, A Ranji, H Anthoni, K Kärner-Rebane, A Põlajev, F Mészáros, N BorbélyAbstract
Issue/problem
Many European workplaces have introduced smoking bans during worktime, but implementation is often inadequate and has many challenges. Smoke-free workplaces (SFW) improve employee health and increase productivity as well as provide a safer work environment. WHO FCTC and EUCO recommend smoke and aerosol free environments and effective tobacco cessation programs at workplaces.
Description of the problem
The current situation in four pilot workplaces in different fields and stages of implementation of SFW in Estonia, Hungary and Finland was surveyed during 2024-2025 using quantitative methods including open questions. The objective was to streamline SFW policy and serve as examples of good practice in EU.
Results
In Finland heads of unit (N = 594, RR = 67%)) and in Hungary employees (N = 1000, RR = 30,2%) of workplaces in the health sector, and in Estonia workers of a financial sector company (N = 2700, RR = 28%) and a manufacturing company (N = 215, RR = 69%) were studied. In Estonia perceived importance of SFW was higher among financial sector company employees (68%) compared to the manufacturing company (43%) while in Finland it was rated at 9,05/10 (0= not important, 10=very important). Perceived benefits of SFW in the three countries included improved employee health, cleaner and safer work environment, equal distribution of breaks, and a positive impact on employer image. The need for employer-supported cessation programs was identified. Challenges included inconsistent adherence and enforcement of workplace regulations and inadequate infrastructure for implementing smoke-free policies.
Lessons
A multi-level approach is required to successfully implement SFW policies, including employer commitment, management-led implementation, and employee participation. Additionally, tobacco and nicotine cessation services can be reimbursed by employers. Workplaces should identify the most practical way to implement SFW policy, and EU-wide criteria for SFW would be beneficial