Why smokers die young...

[subtitle: "Or at least some rambling thoughts from a non-smoker."]

...ignore the toxic chemicals entering their systems, clogging their lungs, and cutting off blood-supply. I've discovered something truly revolutionary in the habits of smokers: They stand outside, anywhere from 3-10 times a day, in the FREEZING COLD - shivering, shaking, and altogether icing over - and are sucking in INCREDIBLY HOT air. How could this be good for you??

You know how during Spring and Fall you often get sick because of the crazy change in weather (temps going from 80 one day to 45 the next). Isn't this the same thing? They basically are creating a thunderstorm inside their lungs - hot air from the cig, cold air from breathing (a necessary function), and - BAM! - it roils up inside.

Batta-bing! Call me a scientist (well, at least I have the "observation" part down).

On another note - what is the effect of smoking on said smoker's productivity at work? Let's say they take 4 smoke breaks a day (not including over lunch). That's probably 10 minutes a smoke. Then, there's the 5 minutes before the smoke, thinking about how much they need a smoke. And then there's the 5 minutes after a smoke, washing hands or grabbing water. And quite possible another 10 minutes if you are waiting on your friend to smoke with you, or if you get caught up in a great conversation. None of this considers the break in momentum of critical thinking/workflow that may occur.

So potentially 30 minutes a smoke in lost productivity. 4x a day = 2 hours. I'm not saying there's a way to address it, but should an employee's habits interfere with their time dedicated to work? Hmmmm....