U-Haul International in Arizona plans to stop interviewing and hiring nicotine users, including those on e-cigarettes and vaping products.
The Phoenix-based truck and trailer rental and self-storage company approved the nicotine-free policy to take effect from February 1 in more than 20 states where it operates, the Arizona Republic reports.
People hired before the policy comes into force won’t be affected, the company says.
U-Haul International employs about 4000 people in Arizona and 30,000 across the US and Canada.
It is legal not to hire people who use nicotine in those states and employers in 17 states can also test for nicotine, U-Haul says.
Company executives encourage employees to avoid nicotine by waiving a required wellness fee.
U-Haul International has gained recognition as a leading health and wellness employee, receiving a silver award in September 2019 in the 2019 American Heart Association Workplace Health Achievement Index and instituting a number of health-related initiatives.
“U-Haul continues to empower team members to stay healthy, engaged and active,” company wellness program manager Monique Wantland says.
“Through our Healthier U program, both full and part-time team members have access to a range of benefits and incentives that support healthy living and a work-life balance.”
The company also provides 30-days free storage for those impacted by natural disasters.
