Some activities in our society can be habitual or casual for others. For example, the odd social beverage with colleagues after a long day at work can be fun. Or, individuals may enjoy smoking in some capacity during their lunch break. Whatever the case, different habits may be preferred over others at the end of the day.
Regarding the latter, smoking can also come about in more contemporary forms. For example, vaping has taken the world by storm, increasing its usage over the decade. Vaping is a smoking experience as an electronic cigarette. While the function remains the same, the structure of your vaping device will differ greatly from a traditional cigarette. One of the core differences has to do with vape juice.
As the name implies, vape juice is a liquid heated into the vapour to be exhaled. Also known as e-liquid, the juice can have several flavours and strengths. It all depends on what the user prefers before lighting up. No matter how you slice it, vaping simply cannot be completed without this ingredient!
However, if you remain in the workplace above, there will be policies in place to know. Make sure you review these important policies for vaping at work:
Policy #1: Vaping on the job
Workplace policies will vary from industry to industry. The same sentiment applies to what sort of rules are in place regarding substances. Generally speaking, these policies allow you to eat or drink from a specified beverage as long as it does not interfere with others. However, smoking and vaping are entirely different ball games.
More often than not, policies will be in place to prevent professionals from smoking in the workplace. The exhaled vapour could harm the setting and someone’s health. Reviewing your work policy and determining what is actionable regarding vaping is strongly advised.
Policy #2: Vaping on break
On the other hand, you may find it rewarding that vaping can be done outside of the office. Many organizations based in a building will have rules indicating the permissible use of smoking. This ruleset also extends to vaping, which can see the user vaping in a public setting.
It is also important to recognize that you may be required to be several feet from the entrance. That is because vaping can still be seen as a hazard, even with the best of intentions behind you. Always double-check where you stand, literally and figuratively, before turning on the device.
Policy #3: Second-hand vape
While the primary policy of no smoking or vaping may be enforced, other implications could manifest. For example, studies have shown that vaping in the workplace could lead to a decrease in productivity. It is more than a bothersome visual to colleagues; projects may not be completed!
Other research on the matter has found that smoke-free environments increase productivity overall. Plus, cleaning costs are lower when compared to settings where vaping occurs. If an employer attempts to ban vaping in the work environment, several benefits could be experienced.
Policy #4: Vaping by location
In regards to the actual workplace location, policies regarding vaping may vary. For instance, many buildings inside the province of Ontario have strict rules regarding on-site vaping. This could be lax in other provinces, depending on the actual industry. A great resource to review has to do with Canadian occupational health and safety.
These resources outline, through regulation, what rules are in place allowing or disavowing vaping. Sometimes, someone who likes vaping may move from one province to another. It is in their best interest to read up on these specific regulations so that they stay abreast of vaping in their future workplace.
Policy #5: Updated vaping policies
Above all else, it is incumbent on vaping users to keep themselves ahead of the curve. It is safe to assume that most workplaces will not allow smoking or vaping on-site. However, some organizations have lax rules regarding vaping in specific areas in the building’s proximity.
When in doubt, always double-check your employer’s policy about workplace conduct. These resources will be the best source of information if you require the correct details. Ask a colleague or your boss about where these can be found. That way, you will not be penalized for vaping on the premises!
