Smoke Free Campus Policy

I. Policy Statement Smoking is no longer permitted anywhere within the boundaries of University-owned or leased property and vehicles with the exception of two designated smoking areas, one on main campus and one on Lone Mountain. The existing prohibition on the sale and promotion of tobacco products on the campus will continue. The University will make available smoking cessation programs to students, staff, and faculty to facilitate the transition to a smoke-free life.

II. Background

a. State and City Smoking Regulations
 
Since February 20th 1991 the University smoking control policy has been in compliance with state and local laws generally prohibiting smoking in buildings and within 30 feet of building entrances/exits.

b. Paradigm Shift in Public Opinion and Rejection of Smoking

A preponderance of data on the adverse health effects of smoking and second hand smoke

Smokers represent a minority of people in the community

Nations, states, cities, and universities across the world have begun smoking bans of varying degrees

III. Objective

• To promote a safe and healthy learning and work environment for students, staff, faculty and visitors by reducing the health risks associated with tobacco smoke.
• To protect the rights of the non-smoking community to breathe tobacco smoke-free air.

IV. Rationale

a. In recognition of the following public health facts about smoking and second hand smoke;

Cigarette smoking is the largest single preventable cause of premature death and disability in the United States.

Separation may reduce, but does not eliminate, exposure of non-smokers to second hand smoke.

The Surgeon General has stated that second hand tobacco smoke is a cause of disease, including lung cancer, in healthy non-smokers.

b. In recognition of the University's;

Core mission to educate "the whole person - mind, body and soul" in the Jesuit Catholic tradition

Goal to distinguish itself as a diverse, socially responsible learning community of high quality scholarship and academic rigor "sustained by a faith that does justice."

Position as a leader by example in the San Francisco Bay Area, joining in solidarity with leading universities around the state, nation and the world to promote the health and wellness of its campus community.

Credo to "Educate Minds and Hearts to Change the World."

 V. Education and Awareness

a. The implementation of this policy will be augmented by an education and awareness campaign that may include but not be limited to;

Notification to prospective students and staff/faculty hires.

Informational meetings, postings and e-mail notifications.

Publication in staff/faculty human resources manuals, student Fogcutter handbook, and appropriate web sites.

Educational campaigns employing classmates and colleagues

Ongoing smoking cessation programs.

Established culture of compliance through peer oversight.

VI. Responsibilities

Clear signage regarding the smoke-free policy and designated areas will be posted throughout the campus.

Peer implementation and observance of this policy will be the duty of every student, staff person, faculty member and visitor on campus.

Supervisory personnel are responsible for implementation of this policy in their areas and addressing problems through the existing administrative structure.

Student violations will be handled through the existing judicial affairs process.

VII. Smoking Cessation Resources

Students - Provided by the Health Promotion Services - 415-422-5797

Staff/Faculty - Provided by WellCall