October 29, 2015
After multiple requests, the
President’s Cabinet recently reviewed the College’s policy on tobacco use. I
write to make you aware of the updated and revised policy:
Virginia Wesleyan College Tobacco Use Policy (Revised
10.28.15)
Introduction
Virginia Wesleyan
College acknowledges and supports the findings of the Surgeon General that
tobacco use in any form, active and passive, is a significant health hazard.
Virginia Wesleyan further recognizes that tobacco smoke has been classified as a Class-A carcinogen.
The American College Health Association has adopted a NO TOBACCO USE policy and encourages colleges and universities to be diligent in their efforts to achieve a 100% indoor and outdoor campus-wide tobacco-free environment. (Position Statement on Tobacco on College and University Campuses, Nov. 2011)
In light of these health risks and recommendations, and in support of a safe and healthy learning and working environment, Virginia Wesleyan has implemented the following:
Virginia Wesleyan further recognizes that tobacco smoke has been classified as a Class-A carcinogen.
The American College Health Association has adopted a NO TOBACCO USE policy and encourages colleges and universities to be diligent in their efforts to achieve a 100% indoor and outdoor campus-wide tobacco-free environment. (Position Statement on Tobacco on College and University Campuses, Nov. 2011)
In light of these health risks and recommendations, and in support of a safe and healthy learning and working environment, Virginia Wesleyan has implemented the following:
Definitions
For the purposes of this
policy, tobacco is defined to include any lighted or unlighted cigarette
(clove, bidis, kreteks), cigars, cigarillos, pipes, and any other smoking
product.
This also includes smokeless, spit or spitless, dissolvable, or inhaled tobacco products, including but not limited to: dip, chew, snuff or snus, in any form (orbs, sticks, pellet, etc.).
Nicotine products not approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a smoking cessation product, such as e-cigarettes, are also prohibited.
This also includes smokeless, spit or spitless, dissolvable, or inhaled tobacco products, including but not limited to: dip, chew, snuff or snus, in any form (orbs, sticks, pellet, etc.).
Nicotine products not approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a smoking cessation product, such as e-cigarettes, are also prohibited.
Exceptions
Nicotine replacement
products approved by the FDA (patches, gum, etc.) are allowed on campus to
support those in the process of quitting.
This policy does not apply to the practice of cultural activities by American Indians that are in accordance with the American Indian Religious Freedom Act, 42 USC, sections 1996 and 1996a. All ceremonial use exceptions must be approved in advance by the Facilities/Operations Office.
This policy does not apply to the practice of cultural activities by American Indians that are in accordance with the American Indian Religious Freedom Act, 42 USC, sections 1996 and 1996a. All ceremonial use exceptions must be approved in advance by the Facilities/Operations Office.
Statement of Policy
Virginia Wesleyan College prohibits
smoking, including e-cigarettes, and the use of smokeless tobacco inside all
buildings on campus to include classrooms and administrative buildings,
residential facilities, dining areas, athletic facilities, and College-owned
vehicles.
Smoking is prohibited within 25 feet
of the outside of any building to prevent non-smokers from having to move
through the vapors. Smoking should be done in areas that prevent smoke and
e-cigarette vapors from entering through entrances, windows, ventilation
systems, or other means.
Smokeless tobacco products are
prohibited from use in non-residential campus facilities.
This policy applies to all faculty,
staff, students, clients, contractors and visitors during and after campus
hours.
All Virginia Wesleyan College staff,
faculty and students are responsible for compliance and for advising visitors
of the policy. Smoking urns will be placed 25 feet or more from select building
entrances. Smokers are strongly encouraged to use them to help keep the grounds
free of tobacco product waste. Designated smoking areas may be established as
warranted.
Violations will be handled like
other work rule or policy violations.
The Office of Human Resources will provide access to
smoking cessation programs for faculty and staff upon request. Health Services
will provide access to smoking cessation programs for students upon request.
# # #
Thank you for your support in maintaining a safe and
healthy environment for learning and working on our campus.
