Whirlpool has suspended 39 employees in Indiana who were seen smoking after declaring themselves eligible for a $500 annual tobacco-free health insurance discount.  (Click here for more.)  Most large employers that have corporate wellness programs involving rewards and fines have generally relied on the honor system, as opposed to investigations or surveillance.  What some see as Whirlpool’s aggressive move could mark the beginning of the honor system’s end when it comes to wellness programs and tobacco use.  Let’s face it.  Healthcare costs are serious business, and employers may be at the point of demanding that employees live up to their commitments to receive breaks in premiums, to take advantage of discounts, or to avoid penalties.

The Whirlpool employees signed statements certifying their non-smoking status.  Falsifying company records is a serious offense, ordinarily justifying discipline or termination.  These employees are members of a union, so a fight is undoubtedly in the offing.  Smokers have fallen on hard times, and I wouldn’t bet on them against the viability of a corporate wellness program.