Facilities, Real Estate and Auxiliary Services

Tobacco-Free Policy

Section: Facilities, Real Estate and Auxiliary Services Policies
Policy Name: Tobacco-Free Policy
Policy Owner: Executive Vice President
Responsible University Office: Facilities, Real Estate and Auxiliary Services
Origination Date: August 1, 2014
Revisions:
Legacy Policy Number: 2-22
  1. SCOPE OF POLICYThis policy addresses the use of tobacco products and applies to all members of the University community.
  2. DEFINITIONSAs used in this policy, the following terms shall have the meanings indicated.
    1. “Tobacco” is defined to include, but not limited to, any lit cigarette, cigar, pipe, bidi, clove cigarette, and any other smoking product; and smokeless or spit tobacco, also known as dip, chew, snuff or snus in any form.
    2. “Property” is defined to include, but not limited to, all buildings and structures, including but not limited to student residence halls, grounds, parking structures, enclosed bridges and walkways, sidewalks, parking lots, and vehicles, as well as personal vehicles in these areas. This includes all University property located in New Castle, Kent, and Sussex Counties.
  3. POLICY STATEMENT
    1. The University of Delaware is committed to providing and maintaining a healthy and safe environment for students, employees, guests, and visitors. Research findings show that use of tobacco products, in general, constitutes health hazards, and also concludes that exposure to secondhand tobacco smoke causes significant health risks for nonsmokers. Smoking and tobacco use in all University of Delaware facilities, property, venues, and athletic facilities will be prohibited effective August 1, 2014.
    2. The use of all tobacco products and tobacco related products, including E-cigarettes, is prohibited on all property that is owned, operated, leased, occupied, or controlled by the University.
    3. The sale and/or free distribution of tobacco products and tobacco related products, including E-cigarettes, is prohibited on all property that is owned, operated, leased, occupied, or controlled by the University.
    4. Exceptions:
      1. Tobacco use may be approved for controlled research with prior consent granted by the dean or director for the facility, the Provost or the appropriate Vice President and the University Fire Marshall. Smoke shall be controlled as any other contaminant generated.
      2. Tobacco use may be approved for educational, clinical, or other approved purpose. Prior approval may be granted by the dean or director of the facility, the Provost or appropriate Vice President and the University Fire Marshall.
  4. POLICY STANDARDS AND PROCEDURE
    1. General Standards:
      1. Successful implementation is a shared responsibility dependent on the cooperation and consideration of the entire University community.
      2.  Visitors, guests, contractors, students, employees and other individuals on campus who are in violation of the policy will be notified through signage and online materials.
      3. Compliance with this policy is the responsibility of all members of the University community.
    2. Smoking Cessation Programs and Resources:
      1. Assistance to faculty and staff who may be interested in smoking cessation programs is available through the Faculty and Staff Assistance Program at 302-831-2414. Group cessation classes are also available by contacting Employee Wellness at 302-831-8853.
      2. Students who may be interested in smoking cessation programs can contact the Office of Student Wellness and Health Promotion at 231 South College Avenue or call 302-831-3457 for an appointment and information.