Student Handbook 2022-23 | Page 62

Tobacco-Free Campus Policy and Procedures

Purpose The purpose of this policy is to create a healthy and sustainable environment for the entire University community ( all locations ) by becoming 100 percent tobacco free . Guidelines are provided for the implementation of a policy prohibiting tobacco use on all locations of Gwynedd Mercy University . Background There is considerable evidence that concentrations of smoke are harmful to non-smokers as well as smokers . Findings of the Surgeon General indicate that tobacco use in any form , active and passive , is a significant health hazard . As a Mercy institution , Gwynedd Mercy University has a responsibility to its employees and students to provide an atmosphere that is consistent with the University ’ s commitment to promote healthy lifestyle choices within an environment that encourages wellness . As part of this commitment , all University locations have become tobacco-free as of August 1 , 2017 .

The Tobacco-Free policy is intended to eliminate exposure to second-hand smoke , provide an environment supportive of tobaccofree lifestyles , and eliminate the environmental impact of cigarette litter . It applies to all faculty , staff , students , visitors , contractors and their employees .

Policy Effective August 1 , 2017 , the use of tobacco products ( including cigarettes , e-cigarettes , cigars , pipes , smokeless tobacco and any other tobacco products ) by anyone including students , staff and visitors , contractors and their employees are prohibited at all University locations .

The use of tobacco products ( including cigarettes , e-cigarettes , cigars , pipes , smokeless tobacco or any other tobacco products ) is prohibited :

• In the interior spaces of all University locations

• On all outside property of all University locations or spaces being used by or on behalf of the University , including partially enclosed areas such as walkways and doorways

• In University vehicles , including vans and all other University vehicles or vehicles being used for University purposes

• Personal vehicles parked on Gwynedd Mercy University property

• In all indoor and outdoor athletic facilities being used by or on behalf of the University

• All locations , other buildings , facilities , or grounds leased or used by Gwynedd Mercy University .

Littering the campus with remains of tobacco products or any other disposable product is prohibited . Organizers and attendees at public or private events , such as conferences , meetings , public lectures , social events , cultural events , and sporting events using University facilities will be required to abide by the tobacco-free policy and procedure . Organizers of events are responsible for communicating the policy to attendees .

Procedure

Education and Awareness The implementation of this policy is augmented by an education and awareness campaign that includes but not be limited to :

• Notification to prospective students and staff / faculty

• Informational meetings , postings , and email notifications

• Publications in staff / faculty human resources manuals , student guides and handbooks , and appropriate websites

• Educational campaigns employing classmates and colleagues

• Ongoing smoking cessation programs

• Establish culture of compliance .

Communication of Policy

Signs bearing the message “ Tobacco-Free Campus ” are posted in prominent spaces including University vehicles and parking lots . However , tobacco-free zones apply to the grounds around all University campuses whether or not signs are posted . No ashtrays or smoking shelters will be provided at any location of Gwynedd Mercy University .

Tobacco Cessation Programs The University is committed to supporting all students and employees who wish to stop using tobacco products . Assistance to students , faculty and staff to overcome addiction to tobacco products is available through Human Resources and the Health and Wellness Center . Referrals to cessation services are encouraged .

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