Western District Health Service
Smoke-Free Workplace
24 June 2008
There’s nothing like breathing in the fresh air of Spring, and that’s what will be happening at Western District Health Service when it becomes totally smoke-free from September 1.
WDHS Chief Executive Officer Jim Fletcher said the Health Service was committed to promoting health initiatives within the community, which would now be reflected in the workplace.
Mr Fletcher said WDHS was keen to promote a progressive, healthy corporate image. “The smoke-free environment will be safer and cleaner, and acknowledges that the majority of staff and visitors do not smoke.”
He said WDHS would provide support through QUIT programs and initiatives, which will be offered to both staff and inpatients.
He said some of the benefits of having a smoke-free workplace included healthier staff, and the opportunity to raise awareness of the health risks of smoking.
The organisation would also reap benefits from the initiative, through reduced cleaning and maintenance costs, as well as a reduction in absenteeism from smoking and passive-smoking related illnesses.
There are financial incentives as well for WDHS, with the potential for reduced risk of Work Cover (Workers’ Compensation) claims from passive-smoking caused illness and reduced fire risk, which may lead to lower insurance premiums.
“Our transition to a Smoke-Free Workplace will include appropriate new signage in specific locations at each WDHS location,” Mr Fletcher said.
ABOVE: Quit Educator Cathy Armstrong prepares for the transition to a Smoke-Free Workplace at WDHS on September 1. Cathy is available to advise and support people who are considering their smoking decisions.