Smoking and vaping bans at work: What are the alternatives?

To combat passive smoking, which causes over 5,000 deaths every year, the French Public Health Code includes provisions banning smoking and vaping in collective spaces such as workplaces. Quitting smoking at work presents a complex challenge, but less harmful alternatives exist to support smokers throughout the day.

When was smoking and vaping banned in the workplace?

It wasn't until 1991 that smoking was banned at work in collective areas such as meeting rooms, canteens and rest rooms. However, smoking was still permitted in individual offices. It wasn't until February 1, 2007 that the workplace became a totally smoke-free zone, unless the employer decided, at his or her discretion, to create a special area.

The rise of vaping from the 2010s onwards has forced France to modernize its healthcare system. As a result, since October 1, 2017, vaping has also been banned in enclosed and covered workplaces for collective use, but also in individual and enclosed offices if the company's internal regulations prohibit it.

The ban on smoking and vaping in the workplace is now well established, and means that non-smokers and vapers are no longer bothered by smoke or vapors. Nevertheless, smokers and vapoteurs can experience moments of withdrawal and discomfort during the working day if their addictions (nicotine, gestures, consumption habits) are not satisfied at the right time.

What are the reasons for smoking at work?

Even though growing awareness of the harmful effects of smoking is tending to reduce such behavior, there are still some common reasons for smoking at work: work-related stress, moments of frustration, boredom or discouragement, or the famous cigarette breaks with colleagues that offer a temporary escape.

Nicotine withdrawal is also a trigger. Nicotine acts as a stimulant, momentarily improving concentration and attention, which can seem attractive in a demanding professional environment. So, banning smoking and vaping at work looks like a journey fraught with difficulties to overcome.

How not to smoke at work?

Not being able to vape or smoke at work can be a challenge. However, there are many tricks you can use to overcome your sudden nicotine cravings. In fact, did you know that your urge to smoke lasts only 2-3 minutes? You can overcome it by nibbling healthy snacks, drinking water or tea, keeping your hands busy with writing or kneading a stress ball. These tips can also be accompanied by a nicotine substitute authorized in your workplace. It will replace your cigarettes.

The pouches are authorized in the workplace

The pouches of nicotine* or nicotine pouches are an innovative solution with great potential for replacing cigarettes and satisfying your immediate need for nicotine anywhere, anytime of the day. While pouches nicotine products are authorized at work, in meetings, in your office, in break rooms... that's because they don't give off smoke, vapour or odour! They can be used without combustion or electronic heating devices, and don't impose passive smoking on others! These pouches are designed to be placed between the gums and the upper lip, where nicotine is released and absorbed into the body.

Compared to inhaled cigarette smoke, pouches nicotine products expose users to fewer harmful substances. Of course, like any product containing a highly addictive molecule, nicotine products are not risk-free. pouches nicotine products are not without risk, and should only be used with full knowledge of the facts by adult smokers who are not in the process of quitting smoking.

Which pouches nicotine to start with?

Faced with the ban on smoking and vaping in the workplace, the pouches also known as "pouches", allow you to use nicotine almost invisibly for 30 minutes. None of your colleagues will be bothered by your consumption.

In our product catalog, you'll find over 40 nicotine brands pouches selected for their quality. Always start with the lowest intensity to familiarize yourself with the product and prevent possible nicotine side effects.

To help you make the right choice, our team has selected 4 products tested and approved by our customers.

* The nicotine contained in this product is highly addictive. Its use by non-smokers is not recommended. Exclusively intended for sale to adults.