Critical analysis of a no-nicotine hiring policy

Abstract

This critical analysis examines the human resource (HR) policy of no-nicotine hiring at a healthcare organization in the United States. The paper begins with a history of tobacco use and the smoking trends in the U.S. The social acceptance of tobacco use declined once the harmful effects of the product were scientifically proven. The paper discusses the attempts of workplaces, specifically that of a U.S. healthcare organization, to reduce nicotine use among employees. The organization’s policy of a smoking ban is explained, as well as the later policy of refusal to hire a candidate who tests positive for nicotine. Employee reactions to the policies are shared.