[Not just another dumb blonde]

Where do you get the idea that if someone is overweight or a smoker they don't work as hard as someone else? I thought a person was hired due to their being able to do the job? Silly me. I am a smoker and when I worked I put 150% into my job. And alot of non-smokers couldn't hold a candle to me as far as my health was concerned. But then I did eat right and got plenty of exercise.

[Atlas Sneezed]

Where do you get the idea that if someone is overweight or a smoker they don't work as hard as someone else?

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First, we are talking about trends and averages, not the perfect prediction of individual performance.

Second, Smokers and the overweight are demonstrably irresponsible with their own health. Irresponsibility in one area correlates (imperfectly) with irresponsibility elsewhere.

Third, smokers and the overweight have more sick days.

Fourth, smokers and the overweight can increase overall health insurance costs.

Fifth, in some jobs, smokers and the overweight are less effective (people might not like a cashier who smells like an ashtray, or a salesman who looks like he has no self-control.) Real biases among the public can mean lower profits for employers.

[elmer fudd]

Where do you get the idea that if someone is overweight or a smoker they don't work as hard as someone else? I thought a person was hired due to their being able to do the job? Silly me. I am a smoker and when I worked I put 150% into my job. And alot of non-smokers couldn't hold a candle to me as far as my health was concerned. But then I did eat right and got plenty of exercise.

It's just simple statistics. Your health relates to your ability to do your job. I'm sure there are plenty of hardworking smokers and fat people, but statistically speaking you're more likely to require medical care and time off from work.