SINGAPORE - Staff at the three public healthcare clusters in Singapore caught vaping or possessing vapes could be dismissed.
SingHealth, NHG Health and the National University Health System (NUHS) said they are taking a strong stance against staff vaping and are implementing disciplinary measures.
These range from a formal written warning for staff caught for the first time for possessing or using a vaping device, to dismissal for repeated offenders and those caught with drug-laced vapes.
The Government had earlier announced that it would toughen its stance on vaping, with stricter measures that came into effect on Sept 1. These include higher fines for abusers and harsher penalties for suppliers.
In response to queries from The Straits Times, the three healthcare clusters which run public hospitals, polyclinics and national specialty centres said they are aligning their human resources policies with the Government's stance.
NUHS said it has reviewed its policy and guidelines and are communicating these to its staff members through e-mail, physical and digital posters, and in-person reminders at meetings.
NUHS employees who are found with vapes or caught vaping will be counselled and given a written warning. Repeat offenders, as well as those caught with drug-laced vapes, trafficking, distributing and supplying vapes, face dismissal. All cases will also be reported to the authorities for investigation.
A NUHS spokeswoman said: "Given the significant health risks associated with vaping, our employees are expected to uphold the highest standards of health and well-being. Our disciplinary approach reflects the higher professional standards expected of healthcare workers, whilst providing supportive measures for rehabilitation."
Over at SingHealth, those caught vaping or possessing vapes face similar disciplinary actions and will also be reported to the authorities. Ms Esther Tan, group chief human resource officer for SingHealth, said that staff are also encouraged to report vaping activities in the workplace.
An NHG Health spokeswomen said that its HR policies are currently being updated to reflect the disciplinary action the group will take against staff members caught vaping or with vapes.
Employees have been reminded that the offences are illegal and carry serious penalties, she said, adding that posters and videos discouraging staff from vaping are displayed across its institutions.
In addition, NHG Health provides support to staff members who wish to quit vaping. They could receive counselling, smoking cessation services or nicotine replacement therapy at its hospitals.