Tobacco and Related Product Restrictions on University Property
Policy 507.14
Introduction
Appalachian State University (the "University") is dedicated to maintaining a healthy work and learning environment. Research findings show that tobacco use in general, including smoking and breathing second hand smoke, constitutes a significant health hazard. In addition to causing direct health hazards, smoking contributes to institutional costs in other ways, including fire damage, cleaning and maintenance costs, and costs associated with employee absenteeism, health care, and medical insurance.
While the University has prohibited smoking inside its buildings and facilities since January 1, 2008, the policy now prohibits smoking in outdoor areas controlled by the University within 50 feet from University facilities.
Specifically, this policy is intended to eliminate the potential for exposure to secondhand smoke and the practical effect of this policy is that the campus should be smoke free. The University supports employees' and students' efforts to quit smoking and offers resources for smoking cessation. For all employees (state health plan information) go to: http://www.shpnc.org/pdf/SmokingCessationflyer.pdf
For anyone interested in quitting smoking (a compilation of smoking-cessation resources) go to: http://www.ihhs.appstate.edu/Outreach%20Programs/cessation.html
Scope
The smoking policy applies to all students, university employees, visitors and guests of the University.
Definitions
Definition phrase or word
Smoking
Smoking is defined as the use or possession of a lighted cigarette, lighted cigar, lighted pipe, or any other lighted tobacco product.
Building
A building is defined as any permanent or temporary structure utilized for the support, shelter or enclosure of people, animals, or property. A "University Building" is defined as any building owned, supervised or occupied by Appalachian State University.
University Property
University Property means University Buildings and grounds owned, leased, operated, controlled, or supervised by Appalachian State University. "University Buildings" include, but are not limited to: residence halls, classroom and office buildings, workshops, gymnasiums, Appal Cart stops, athletic fields, parking decks, stairwells, inside and outside dining areas, vending areas, breezeways, and connectors.
University Vehicle
A University Vehicle is defined as a passenger carrying vehicle owned, leased, or otherwise controlled by the University and assigned permanently or temporarily to a University employee or to the University for official University business.