Cutting Costs at Your Inn by Going Smoke-free

Did you know that making your inn smoke-free can help you save money? More than half of U.S. states are covered by a law that prohibits smoking in public places. For those who are not covered by these laws, following suit is often still economically advantageous. Going smoke-free at your inn protects your employees’ health, improves productivity, reduces insurance premiums, lowers maintenance expenses, reduces absenteeism and can even make customers happier. It often makes good business sense to run a smoke-free establishment, no matter what local laws mandate.

Worker Health

Long-term exposure to secondhand smoke has been shown to lead to sicknesses and disabilities such as rhinitis, asthma, sinusitis, and other respiratory and heart problems that result in costly workers’ compensation claims. Eliminating smoke in the workplace minimizes your inn’s risk.

Experience with the passage of smoke-free laws in several states demonstrates that hospitality workers’ health improves dramatically in the absence of smoke. After the smoke-free law in New York State went into effect, the number of hospitality workers who experienced morning coughs dropped by 46 percent. Healthier workers mean higher productivity and fewer sick days.

Smoking Effects on Business

According to a summary of studies assessing the economic impact of smoke-free policies in the hospitality industry compiled by the VicHealth Centre for Tobacco Control, 47 of 49 major studies showed no negative economic impact from the introduction of smoke-free policies. Your profits won’t be going up in smoke by switching your policy. Many of your customers will appreciate the switch. With today’s increasing number of smoke-free establishments, consumers are used to the idea, and many expect it.

Lower Insurance Premiums

Allowing smoking in your establishment increases your risk of fire, workers’ compensation, medical and liability claims. When you prohibit smoking, you are decreasing your risk. As a result, you’ll see the difference in your insurance premium.

How Do I Do It?

Prohibiting smoking at your bed and breakfast is simple:

• Create a clear written policy prohibiting smoking on the premises by both employees and patrons, distribute it and communicate it with employees.
• Display a notice to patrons prohibiting smoking.
• Include all areas of your facility, plus outdoor patios or terraces.
• Enforce your policy. Present an alternative location where patrons can smoke.

Breathe Easy With CBIZ Innkeepers Insurance

The economic and reputational benefits of going smoke-free are undeniable. You’ll cut costs while reducing risk and boosting customer satisfaction. For more business safety guidance and innkeeper insurance solutions, connect with a member of our team.

This blog may contain scenarios that are provided as examples only. Coverage is subject to the terms, conditions and exclusions of the policy issued. The information provided is general in nature and may be affected by changes in law or the interpretation of such laws. The reader is advised to contact a professional prior to taking any action based upon this information.

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