Vaping in the office? Most staff say they've seen it happen
A survey reveals 57% of workers have witnessed workplace vaping, prompting calls for clearer employer policies on e-cigarettes.Summary
A September 2026 survey by people2people Recruitment of over 1,200 respondents found that 57% of workers have seen someone vaping in their workplace at least once, while 27% admitted to vaping at work themselves. The study reveals significant generational differences, with Gen Z most likely to vape repeatedly at work (34%) compared to Millennials (24%) and Gen X/Baby Boomers (16%). Public health and work health and safety (WHS) regulations treat vaping the same as cigarette smoking in enclosed indoor workplaces, with NSW Health inspectors able to issue $300 on-the-spot fines. Since 1 July 2024, only established pharmaceutical supply chains have been allowed to distribute vapes nationally, according to the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA).
HR experts recommend that employers explicitly include vaping alongside smoking in workplace policies, covering offices, company vehicles, and remote work settings. Virtual meetings have blurred home-office boundaries: 32% of respondents had seen someone vape during a virtual meeting, though 55% said it was never acceptable. The piece advises starting conversations about breaches with trust and compassion, as most cases are habitual rather than defiant, while reserving firmer disciplinary action for repeat offenders. Newer products such as nicotine pouches add complexity, and experts suggest employers set one consistent standard covering all substances rather than ruling on each product individually.
(Source：Human Resources Director Magazine)
