Welcome to the boxing ring, where two camps are preparing for an epic clash: smokers vs. non-smokers. But this time, it’s not about public health or individual freedom, no, it’s a battle for time. Who should reclaim the lost hour?
In one corner of the ring, we have the smokers. With a coffee in hand, a cigarette between their lips, and an attitude that says, “I live my life my way,” they regularly step out for a little nicotine break. In the other corner, we have the non-smokers, armed with their productivity and indignation, often feeling disadvantaged by these frequent breaks.
But in this war of breaks, one question arises: should smokers, who benefit from these moments of relaxation, compensate for the time they spend smoking?
According to a survey conducted by Moovijob.com in 2024, 64% of employees believe that these breaks create inequalities in the workplace.
This debate raises complex issues around productivity, health, and social cohesion in the workplace.
Round 1: in the non-smokers' corner, productivity at stake
Non-smokers enter the arena with statistics in hand. According to several studies, cigarette breaks can account for an average of 40 to 80 minutes a day spent indulging their addiction - the equivalent of almost two working weeks a year. Can these breaks be considered as lost working time?
Moreover, non-smokers argue the impact of second-hand smoke on their health. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report that second-hand smoke contains more than 7,000 chemicals, many of which are harmful or even carcinogenic. Why should they be forced to breathe this toxic air while their colleagues take a break?
Finally, some non-smokers feel socially excluded, as these breaks often serve as informal moments to strengthen social bonds among smokers. This phenomenon can sometimes create an imbalance in professional relationships, although it remains difficult to quantify.
Round 2: in the smokers' corner, breaks as a legitimate need
The smokers do not back down from the challenge. They refer to studies published in the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, indicating that regular breaks, whether related to smoking or not, can help improve concentration and reduce stress at work. Why deny workers an effective way to maintain their mental well-being?
Furthermore, smokers emphasise that their dependence on nicotine is a physiological need. Denying their breaks could not only reduce productivity but also cause withdrawal symptoms that could disrupt the entire team. Is this a price the company is willing to pay?
Finally, for some smokers, these breaks allow them to create a special social bond with other smoking colleagues, thus reinforcing a sense of camaraderie. This could even contribute to a more harmonious work environment, as these informal exchanges foster cooperation and mutual support.
Mathilde’s No-Smoke January: an inspiring initiative
Mathilde, a Luxembourg employee, took on a major challenge: quitting smoking for the entire month of January. Her goal? To use this step to initiate lasting change throughout the year. But how does she experience this transition as a former smoker, particularly during the famous cigarette breaks?
"I always go with my colleagues on cigarette breaks, but I don’t smoke," explains Mathilde. "I realised that what I was missing wasn’t so much smoking, but rather the habit of taking a break and chatting with my colleagues."
Regarding productivity, smoker vs. non-smoker, Mathilde nuances: "It really depends on the person and the type of task. As far as I'm concerned, on certain tasks, taking a break can make me lose track, which makes it harder to get back to work. On the other hand, for long or demanding tasks, taking a break helps me refresh my mind and be more efficient afterward."
Mathilde thus illustrates a good balance between personal challenges and professional life, while raising a reflection on work habits and breaks. An inspiring initiative that could motivate others to consider their own "No-Smoke Challenge"!
The way forward: balancing needs and productivity
So, how can we leave this ring having won rather than lost? Perhaps an approach based on results rather than physical presence in the office could be the key. Breaks could be regulated but encouraged, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to take time to recharge without slowing down the team.
In this match between smokers and non-smokers, the ultimate victory lies in the ability to strike a balance between respecting individual needs and maintaining a healthy and productive work environment for all.
