Smoke- and Tobacco-Free Campus Policy
1.0 Purpose
1.1 The purpose of this university policy is to outline the details and define the process for implementation of a smoke-free and tobacco-free campus policy.
1.2 The University recognizes the right that individuals have to choose whether they will smoke. However, in recognition of environmental tobacco health risks and for the health and well-being of all Wayne State University students, faculty, staff, volunteers, customers and visitors, this university policy has been adopted.
1.3 Wayne State University has a vital interest in maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, and visitors. Research findings indicate that use of tobacco products and exposure to second hand smoke in general constitutes a significant health hazard. The health education programs of the University perform an important function by demonstrating and promoting healthy lifestyles through activities such as curtailment of the use of tobacco products.
2.0 Definitions
2.1 “Smoking†or “smoke†means inhaling, exhaling, vaping, burning or carrying any lighted or heated cigar, cigarette, pipe, or other tobacco product as defined below.
2.2 “Tobacco Products†means all forms of tobacco, including but not limited to tobacco and other products used in cigarettes, cigars, pipes, water (hookah) pipes or pens, electronic cigarettes, and smokeless tobacco products.
3.0 Policy
3.1 Smoking and the use of all tobacco products is prohibited in all buildings or structures owned, leased, rented or operated by the University, housing facilities, campus grounds and other public spaces, and University-owned vehicles, as they are considered property of the University. “Property†for purposes of this paragraph includes parking structures, bridges and walkways, sidewalks, and parking lots.
3.2 Smoking and tobacco use in privately-owned vehicles is permitted.
3.3 Smoking or tobacco use in University facilities will be permitted for controlled research, educational, theatrical and performance or religious ceremonial purposes only with prior approval of the Dean, Director or other Executive responsible for the facility.
3.4 The sale or distribution of tobacco products in facilities owned or leased by the university or on university property is hereby prohibited.
4.0 Implementation
4.1 Signs will be placed throughout campus in order to communicate this policy. Exterior signs and standard print included in campus publications, programs, bulletins, etc., will identify the campus as a “Smoke-Free and Tobacco-Free Campusâ€
4.2 Facilities Planning and Management (FP&M) is responsible for working with each Building Coordinator to post adequate signage in all buildings. Exterior signs will be posted by FP&M.
5.0 Compliance and Enforcement
5.1 The success of this policy will depend on the thoughtfulness, consideration, and cooperation of both tobacco users and non-users. All students, faculty, staff, volunteers, customers and visitors share in the responsibility for adhering to and enforcing this policy.
5.1.1 Nothing in these procedures is intended to prohibit or discourage enforcement of this policy by the university or to discourage individuals from seeking university enforcement of this policy. However, persons who have reason to believe their rights are being violated are encouraged to seek informal remedies wherever possible. The first remedy should be to request the smoker to refrain from smoking in any prohibited location.
5.1.2 In classroom facilities, it is appropriate to seek relief from the instructor. If satisfaction is not obtained, relief should be sought from the department chair, dean, or other academic administrator of the unit that sponsors the course. In the alternative, students may call the office of the Ombudsperson.
5.1.3 In university housing, relief should be sought from the residence hall or apartment staff. An alternative relief process is for residents to contact the Office of Housing and Residential Life.
5.1.4 In work sites, relief should be sought from the immediate supervisor or his/her supervisor. An alternative relief process is for employees to call Human Resources.
5.1.5 In general purpose areas, relief should be sought from the person most immediately responsible for supervising the area.
5.2 Students who violate this policy will be subject to the Student Code of Conduct, as well as warnings and ticketing by WSU Police.
5.3 Employees who violate this policy will be subject to the appropriate disciplinary process, as well as warnings and ticketing by WSU Police.
5.4 The University may provide or make available smoking cessation programs for both students and employees tassist those who choose to quit smoking.
6.0 Duration
6.1 This University Policy may be amended or revoked by the president at any time with or without notice.
6.2 This University Policy supersedes University Policy 2000-3, Second Release.
7.0 Revocation and Effective Date
7.1 This university policy is effective August 19, 2015.
Signed by President M. Roy Wilson, June 15, 2015