Smoke-Free Policy

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Redeemer’s University Smoke Free Policy

Policy Updated: 2022

Policy Reviewed: 2024

Introduction

Redeemer’s University is committed to providing a safe and healthy environment for all its students, staff, faculty, and visitors. In alignment with public health recommendations and regulations, and in support of our institutional responsibility to foster a healthy community, this Smoke-Free Policy is established. This policy aims to eliminate exposure to secondhand smoke and other harmful substances related to smoking, thereby promoting the well-being of the entire university population.



Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to:

  • Protect all individuals on campus from the known health risks associated with exposure to secondhand smoke.
  • Promote a smoke-free culture that supports the health and wellness of students, employees, and visitors.
  • Align with national public health goals, including Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG 3), which promotes good health and well-being.


Scope

This policy applies to:

  • All individuals on university property, including students, staff, faculty, contractors, and visitors
  • All university-owned, leased, or managed premises, including buildings, grounds, parking lots, and vehicles owned or operated by the university.


Definitions

  • Smoking: The act of inhaling, exhaling, burning, or carrying any lighted or heated cigarette, cigar, pipe, hookah, or other smoking equipment, whether containing tobacco, marijuana, or any other substance. This includes electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes), vaping devices, or any other product that simulates smoking.
  • University Property: Includes all buildings, facilities, parking lots, university-owned or leased vehicles, walkways, lawns, athletic grounds, and any other areas within the boundaries of the campus.


Policy Statement

Smoking is prohibited in all areas of university property. This includes, but is not limited to:

  • Indoor Areas: All university-owned or leased buildings, residences, classrooms, laboratories, restrooms, dining halls, and lounges.
  • Outdoor Areas: Courtyards, terraces, university walkways, parks, sports facilities, stadiums, and any areas adjacent to buildings where smoke may enter through windows, doors, or ventilation systems.
  • University Vehicles: Smoking is prohibited in all university-owned, leased, or operated vehicles.

The policy applies to all types of smoking, including traditional tobacco products, electronic cigarettes, and vaporizers.



Smoking Cessation Support

Redeemer’s University is committed to supporting individuals who are interested in quitting smoking. The university will offer the following resources and support:

  • Access to smoking cessation programs and counseling services through [Student Health Services] and [Employee Wellness Programs].
  • Nicotine replacement therapies (NRTs) such as patches, gum, or lozenges at a reduced cost or free of charge.
  • Workshops and seminars on the benefits of quitting smoking and strategies to successfully quit.

Information about cessation support will be made available on the university website and through campus health services.



Compliance and Enforcement

  • Responsibility: Compliance with this policy is the shared responsibility of all members of the university community. Individuals are encouraged to politely inform others about the smoke-free policy to foster an environment of mutual respect.
  • Enforcement: The following steps will be taken to ensure adherence to the Smoke-Free Policy:
    • Warnings: Individuals observed smoking in violation of the policy will be reminded of the policy and asked to comply immediately. Information on smoking cessation support will also be provided.
    • Repeated Violations: Individuals who repeatedly violate the policy may face disciplinary action according to university protocols:
      • Students: Referred to the [Student Conduct Office] for potential disciplinary measures.
      • Staff and Faculty: Referred to the [Human Resources Department] for review and appropriate action.
      • Visitors and Contractors: May be asked to leave university property if they do not comply after receiving a warning.

Signage indicating the smoke-free nature of the campus will be prominently displayed at key locations, including building entrances, parking lots, and common outdoor areas.



Exceptions

This policy does not apply to:

  • Approved research activities: If smoking is part of an approved and supervised research study, such activities must be conducted in controlled environments with prior approval from the [University’s Research Ethics Committee].


Policy Review and Updates

The Smoke-Free Policy will be reviewed annually to ensure its effectiveness and alignment with public health standards. Updates may be made as necessary in response to new research, changes in national legislation, or feedback from the university community.



Communication and Awareness

Redeemer's University will ensure that all students, staff, faculty, and visitors are made aware of this policy through:

  • New student and employee orientations.
  • Campus-wide communications via email, newsletters, and social media.
  • Clear signage posted at all campus entrances and strategic points throughout the university.

Educational campaigns will be periodically launched to reinforce the benefits of a smoke-free environment and to promote available cessation resources.



Policy Violations Reporting

Individuals who observe violations of this policy may report concerns to [Campus Safety and Security] or [Student Affairs Office]. Reports will be handled in a respectful, confidential manner, and individuals will not be subject to retaliation for making a report in good faith.



Conclusion

By implementing this Smoke-Free Policy, Redeemer’s University demonstrates its commitment to promoting the health and well-being of its community members, providing a cleaner and healthier environment, and supporting the global goal of reducing tobacco use. We encourage everyone to contribute to maintaining a smoke-free campus for the benefit of all.

References:

  • World Health Organization (WHO) – Framework Convention on Tobacco Control.
  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – The Benefits of Quitting Smoking.
  • University Health Services – Smoking Cessation Programs.

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