A recent international survey brought attention to a worrying trend: smoking personnel in the workplace around the world rack up more than three weeks of paid vacation time every year as a result of pauses to smoke.
Smoking-Related Absenteeism Concerns in the UAE
A recent global study has highlighted that smoking employees accrue more than three weeks of paid time off annually due to smoking breaks, raising concerns among medical professionals about the impact of smoking-related absenteeism. In the UAE, doctors have observed a significant number of sick notes issued daily for patients suffering from smoking-related illnesses, underscoring the serious health consequences associated with tobacco use.
Medical Impact of Smoking
Dr. Jamsheer Kabeer, a specialist in Pulmonology, emphasized that smokers often require sick leave for conditions such as asthma exacerbations, pneumonia, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). More severe ailments like lung cancer and pulmonary hypertension can lead to prolonged absences, affecting both the health of the smoker and imposing substantial costs on healthcare systems.
Dr. Salaheldin Ahmed Nasr Rezk, specializing in internal medicine, noted that approximately 20% of his consultations involve patients with smoking-related health issues, often compounded by conditions like hypertension and heart disease.
To address the impact of smoking in workplaces, the UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) has urged employers to implement smoke-free policies. These policies extend beyond prohibiting tobacco use indoors to include outdoor areas and parking lots, aiming to mitigate absenteeism and enhance employee productivity. The ministry's guidelines emphasize the economic benefits of smoke-free environments, citing reduced absenteeism rates and improved workplace efficiency.
Research from the United States corroborates these findings, revealing that smoking at work hampers cessation efforts for over 60% of smokers surveyed. Many respondents cited smoking breaks as essential for mental relaxation during work hours, highlighting the challenge of quitting amidst workplace smoking norms.
Nicokick's data further quantifies the impact of smoking breaks, estimating that smoking employees effectively gain more than three weeks of paid leave annually. While acknowledging the importance of breaks for all employees, Nicki Wilson of Genie Recruitment in Dubai suggests that the health benefits of breaks may be offset by smoking-related health risks.
Despite misconceptions, vaping (e-cigarette use) is also regulated under UAE law, prohibiting its use indoors and in enclosed spaces due to health risks associated with second-hand exposure to aerosol emissions. The MoHAP emphasizes that ventilation systems do not effectively remove harmful substances from second-hand smoke or vapor, underscoring the need for comprehensive smoke-free policies to safeguard public health.
The UAE's efforts to promote smoke-free workplaces align with global health recommendations to reduce smoking-related health risks and improve overall workplace wellness. By addressing the impact of smoking on absenteeism and productivity, these initiatives aim to create healthier environments that support employee well-being and organizational success.