Smoking policies among private employers and public agencies in Texas: a statewide analysis

The present study examined the prevalence, correlates, and perceived impact of smoking policies among private employers and public agencies in Texas. An identical survey instrument was administered to two groups of Texas employers: a random sample of private industries and all state agencies (excluding universities). Response rates were 62% (n = 420) for private industries and 73% (n = 130) for public agencies. Fifty-two percent of state agencies and 53% of private employers reported having a smoking policy, with the majority of policies having been implemented since 1986. Concern about employees' health or comfort was the most important reason for implementing a policy for both state agencies and private employers. Both groups believed that implementation of a policy resulted in fewer complaints from employees and less smoking in the workplace but had less impact on productivity or morale. This study on the prevalence of smoking policies in the workplace is the first to document that the majority of surveyed employers have a restrictive smoking policy in place. In addition, this study found minimal differences in the prevalence, rationale, and perceived benefits of smoking policies between private employers and state agencies.