Relativity Technologies Inc. in Cary, N.C., the heart of tobacco-growing country, pays its workers to avoid smoking. Relativity also foots the bill for smoking-cessation assistance, such as Nicorette gum or Nicoderm patches. Chief Executive Vivek Wadhwa believes smokers not only jeopardize their health, but they also waste time and dirty the office with their ashes. Since the program began this past spring, he reports, three of the company's 12 smokers have kicked the habit. In the long run, it could also save money for the company from fewer sick days and indirect health-care costs.
Many businesses cover the costs for smoking-cessation treatment.
Similarly, a growing number provide bonuses or cover the costs of employees' successful weight-loss efforts. Inc. All Rights Reserved. Copyright and reprint information.