Smoking Policy
Aims
Rupa Car Maidstone has a duty to ensure, as far as practicable, the health, safety and welfare of its employees. It must also comply with laws that prohibit smoking in the workplace. Accordingly, this policy is compliant with the provisions of the Health Act 2006 and the legislation made under that Act prohibiting smoking. Employees who smoke in prohibited areas endanger themselves and others who do not smoke, as well as committing a criminal offence.
An employee/ Driver smoking in an area in which smoking is prohibited will commit a disciplinary offence which will be dealt with in accordance with the Company’s disciplinary procedure. Employees have an obligation to report breaches of this policy. No employee shall suffer any detriment by reason of reporting breaches of this policy to the Company.
This policy applies to all Rupa Car Maidstone employees, managers and directors. It also covers bona-fide sub-contractors, their employees and labour only subcontractors. Both Drugs and Alcohol are a rising problem and those with ongoing drug/alcohol problems or just a one off, may be endangering themselves and others. This consumption may take place the night before work, but will still be able to affect the processes that an employee needs to fulfil their work obligations. Drugs and Alcohol can make people lose inhibitions and therefore take higher risks. It can also make people aggressive, which may lead to physical violence, which will not be tolerated.
The Company does not permit smoking on any part of the Company’s premises including the vehicles or within close proximity of the premises, apart from those areas specifically designated as smoking areas.
It is against the law to smoke inside the vehicles and all the vehicles have got No Smoking signs inside the widows which clearly states the reason.
Rupa Car Maidstone has a zero tolerance towards both drugs and alcohol but realize that some people may become dependent on such substances and therefore will provide advice and guidance to those who may be affected by such addictions.
Responsibility
It is the responsibility of Rupa Car Maidstone to provide a safe place of work, which can only be achieved through the continued consultation with employees about such issues as drug or alcohol abuse. It is also the responsibility of employees and customers to make sure they perform their tasks in a safe manner which does not give rise to risks to themselves or risks to others.
Company Rules
The company rules are: ‘No Alcohol or drugs to be taken at work or consumed prior to working. If you are adjudged to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol you will be stopped from working. This includes consumption of drugs or alcohol the night before work’.
These rules must be implemented at all times. Drug/Alcohol consumption is prohibited during working hours. Not only is there a risk of injury or damage on the construction site, but there is also a high risk from driving home or driving around to different sites. In both cases, the person drinking is not only putting themselves in danger, but they are affecting the health and safety of people around them.
Prohibition
Employees are prohibited from working (Driving to work in their personal vehicles, driving company vehicles or working in the office) if they are under the influence of drugs/alcohol. This includes a single unit of alcohol. Moreover, customer are prohibited to consume any kind of alcohol or drink whilst in the car and this must be strictly followed as per the guidance from local council as well as company policy.
Disciplinary Action
Strict actions will be taken against those who will breach the guidance and policy. If you are believed to be under the influence of drugs/alcohol, we may inform the Police so they can perform tests to determine whether you have consumed any drugs/alcohol. A breach of these rules will be defined as gross misconduct, and it is likely that the employee in question will face summary dismissal. And for the customer who is abusive towards the driver or staff shall be reported to police.