Punished for smoking and vaping

According to the Dundee Evening Telegraph:

A controversial no-smoking policy imposed on Dundee City Council staff a year ago has so far punished fewer than five rule-breakers.

The initiative, which prohibits smoking and vaping throughout the working day, attracted quite a lot of attention when it was announced in November 2018.

‘Council bans staff from smoking or vaping during work’ reported STV.

‘Workers fume as Dundee council introduces ‘heavy-handed’ ban on smoking and vaping on shift’ noted the Evening Telegraph.

‘Tough new Dundee City Council smoking policy ‘tantamount to bullying’ declared the Courier, quoting Forest.

Today’s report, which is based on a freedom of information request, implies that the policy isn’t working because ‘fewer than five’ people have been disciplined.

Perhaps, but I still think that’s five too many, especially if the ‘offence’ took place outside during an authorised break.

Regarding the nature of the punishment (options include sanctions or a formal warning), the council has been less forthcoming, citing data protection (in case the individuals concerned can be identified).

Full story, including a short quote from me, here.