Policy 101.12 : Tobacco/Smoking Policy


        U N I V E R S I T Y   O F   S O U T H E R N   M A I N E



POLICY#:  101.12
SUBJECT:  TOBACCO/SMOKING POLICY
APPLIES TO:  ALL EMPLOYEES, STUDENTS AND VISITORS
ISSUED BY:  OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
EFFECTIVE DATE:  01/01/86
REVIEW/REVISION DATE:  09/01/2002



I.  Whereas, The University of Southern Maine (USM) joins with the American College 
    Health Association (ACHA) in supporting the findings of the Surgeon General 
    that tobacco use in any form, active and passive, is a significant health hazard.  
    USM further recognizes that second-hand smoke has been classified as 
    a Group A carcinogen by the United States Environmental Protection Agency.  
    USM acknowledges the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) statistics 
    that 70% of all smokers report that they want to quit smoking completely.  The 
    implementation of a new tobacco policy will have an immediate effect on 
    individuals who smoke and therefore USM has included prevention, education and 
    cessation initiative in planning for this policy change.

  
  
Our intent is to institute a policy that respects the rights of smokers and 
    non-smokers while accomplishing the following:  reduce exposure to second-hand 
    smoke, provide an environment supportive of tobacco-free lifestyles, reduce 
    risk of accidental fire, and reduce the environmental impact of cigarette litter.


II. Therefore, in order to protect the health, safety and comfort of University 
    students, employees, and visitors, and consistent with state law (Title 22, 
    Chapter 1580-A and 1542), it is the policy of the University of Southern Maine 
    to restrict smoking in facilities and on grounds owned, leased, or rented by 
    the University.  Where the needs of smokers and non-smokers conflict, 
    smoke-free air shall have priority.  In addition, USM supports education 
    programs to provide smoking cessation and prevention initiatives to our 
    students and employees.


EDUCATION

1.       The USM community and its visitors shall be made aware of the new tobacco 
    policy through every appropriate means.  Organizers of public events using 
    USM facilities are responsible for communicating and abiding by this policy.
2.  USM encourages employees and students not to smoke by offering educational 
    information and providing information about smoking cessation classes offered 
    through university departments or offices, health care providers, nonprofit 
    organizations or other groups. 
    a.      USM Health Services and Counseling Services will provide prevention and 
        cessation programs to students upon request.
    b.      USM Health Promotion Coordinator will provide prevention and cessation 
        programs to employees, retirees and their dependents upon request.


SMOKE-FREE AREAS

1.      Inside all facilities owned, leased, or rented by USM, including residence 
    halls.
2.      Inside all USM owned vehicles and any vehicle with multiple occupants on 
    University business.
3.      On all campus grounds, except in designated smoking areas.  Outdoor smoke-free 
    areas shall include, but are not limited to; all entryways, stairways, bus-stop 
    areas, ATM’s, areas where there is fixed seating, athletic fields, partially 
    enclosed areas such as breezeways, and walkways between sections of buildings.


SALES AND MARKETING

1.      The sale and free distribution of tobacco products on any USM campus is 
    prohibited.
2.      Campus organizations are prohibited from accepting money or gifts from 
    companies who are primarily engaged in the sale and promotion of tobacco 
    products.
3.      Tobacco advertisements are prohibited in all University-run publications.
4.      All contracts with off campus vendors shall provide that the University’s 
    name or logo will not be used in connection with tobacco promotions.


ENFORCEMENT RESPONSIBILITIES 

1.      The President, Vice Presidents, Deans, Directors and Department Heads  shall assure that 
        this policy is communicated to everyone within their areas of responsibility.
2.      The Office of Community Standards will be responsible for student violations.  
    Supervisors will be responsible for employee violations.
3.      The policy relies on the consideration and cooperation of smokers and nonsmokers.  
       All members of the USM community, including visitors, are asked  to observe this policy.
4.      Direct questions and concerns about the policy to the office of Vice President of Student and University Life.

 

 

Human Resources
128 School Street, Gorham Campus
207-228-8536
human resources