Effective Date
August 1, 2025
Office of Primary Responsibility
Office of Student Life
Summary of Policy
Smoking and vaping in any form is prohibited inside all College-owned or leased buildings, residence halls, and College-owned or rented vehicles. Smoking and vaping are also prohibited at all formal outdoor assemblies where people are in close proximity, including athletic events, commencement, and concerts.
Reason for Policy
Evidence of the harmful effects of secondary smoke has grown stronger and stronger in recent years. Even brief exposure to smoke can cause physical distress in some individuals, and tobacco use is the leading avoidable cause of sickness and death in our society. We have also learned that simple separation of smokers and nonsmokers within the same airspace does not protect nonsmokers from environmental tobacco smoke, and even separation into different physical spaces within the same building is not adequate, given the nature of building ventilation systems. Finally, we know that smoking increases maintenance and liability costs, decreases productivity, and increases sick time. For all of these reasons, Allegheny has a smoke-free workplace.
Policy Statement
Individuals are allowed to smoke and vape outdoors, maintaining at least 10 feet from all entrances/exits and air intake systems. Smoking is prohibited in areas in which flammable liquids and/or gases may be stored. Individuals are responsible for extinguishing their cigarettes, etc. in a safe manner and properly dispose of them.
Definitions
Smoking: refers to all smoking methods, including but not limited to cigarettes, cigars, pipes, hookahs, and water pipes.
Vaping: refers to the act of inhaling and exhaling vapor containing nicotine and flavoring produced by a device designed for this purpose.
|