Local labor unions' positions on worksite tobacco control

Abstract

Objectives. This report describes local unions' position on tobacco control initiatives and factors related to those positions. Method. A national random sample of local union leaders was surveyed by telephone. Results. Forty-eight percent of local unions supported worksite smoking bans or restrictions, and only 8% opposed both a ban and a restriction. Conclusions. Support from tobacco control initiatives among local union was higher than might b expected or the basis of previous evidence. Engaging unions in smoking policy formation is likely to contribute to the larger public health goal of reducing smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke among workers.