The Harm of Using Vapes and Tobacco Heating Systems in the Office: What Does Kazakhstan Law Say?

Here is the English translation of the text:

Why Are THSs Dangerous in an Enclosed Space?

• Passive “Vaping”: Aerosols from tobacco heating systems contain nicotine, formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, and fine particulate matter. Regular inhalation of these substances by colleagues increases the risk of developing respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.

• Specific Odor and Allergens: Aerosols do not dissipate without a trace. Settling on furniture, carpets, and clothing, toxic compounds form “second-hand” and “third-hand” residues that cause mucosal irritation, headaches, and allergic reactions.

• Reduced Productivity: Polluted air in the workspace leads to rapid fatigue, decreased concentration, and lower overall team efficiency.

What Does the Law of the Republic of Kazakhstan Say?

The use of tobacco heating systems and vapes in enclosed office spaces is explicitly prohibited by RK law:

• Ban on Workplace Smoking: According to Article 110 of the Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan “On Public Health and the Healthcare System,” the consumption of any tobacco products (including THS, e-cigarettes, and vapes) is strictly prohibited in indoor areas designated as workplaces and work zones.

• Fines for Violators (Art. 441 of the Code of Administrative Offences of the RK):

  • For individuals (employees): Using THSs in non-designated areas carries a fine of 15 MRP (or 20 MRP for a repeated offense within a year).

  • For employers: Failure to take action against individuals smoking in the workplace carries fines ranging from 25 to 60 MRP (depending on the business category).

• Disciplinary Liability: Under the Labor Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan, using a THS in the office qualifies as a disciplinary offense. The employer has the right to issue a notice, a reprimand, or, in the case of a repeated violation, terminate the employment contract.

What to Do If You Are an Employee in This Office?

If colleagues continue to use THSs right at their desks, protect your health through lawful steps:

• Open Dialogue: Remind colleagues that using THSs indoors violates the RK Health Code and causes discomfort to those around them.

• Contact Management or HR: Request an official company order banning smoking in workplaces and the installation of warning signs in compliance with RK legal requirements.

• Ventilation: Try to air out the space regularly, although standard windows and conventional air conditioners cannot fully filter out fine aerosols and toxic gases.

What to Do If You Are a Business Owner?

A business owner bears direct legal and financial responsibility for complying with sanitary and epidemiological standards in the office. Implementing internal regulations and fines is an important step, but even after THS use stops, settled microparticles and allergens remain in the air.

According to Order No. KR DSM-246/2020 of the Ministry of Healthcare of the RK, premises must be equipped with effective air purification and ventilation systems.

Contact us! ClimatPROF Kazakhstan offers professional air purification solutions that completely neutralize residual toxins, odors, and allergens in your office.

Our Solution: Premium-Class Longhi Air Purifiers

We supply Danish Longhi Air purification systems that have undergone independent international testing. Featuring 360-degree air intake and high-powered mechanical filtration, this equipment eliminates tobacco aerosols, dust, viruses (including COVID-19), and bacteria, creating an ideally safe environment for work.

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