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Barnard Smoking Policy
Barnard College recognizes that using tobacco products is harmful to the
health of tobacco users and that exposure to secondhand smoke poses a health
risk to non-smokers. The following updated policy has been enacted to address
these health concerns and to provide a smoke-free workplace for all members
of the college community.
Smoking is prohibited in all college-owned student residences and all academic and administrative buildings. In addition, as of August 30, 2004, outdoor smoking is no longer permitted within the confines of the campus, the only exceptions being two specified smoking areas: the terrace on the north side of Altschul and the paved center of the Quad (click here to see a map of these locations in pdf format). Seating and ashtrays will be provided in both locations.
While the risks of smoking have long been known, recent studies on the impact
of secondhand smoke cannot be ignored. According to the Centers for Disease
Control, secondhand smoke is the third leading cause of preventable death in
the U.S., causing about 3,000 deaths from lung cancer in non-smokers every
year. The American Heart Association found that people who have never
smoked, but were exposed to secondhand smoke, have about a 20 percent
higher rate of coronary heart disease.
Barnard is committed to providing educational programs to assist every
member of our community in making healthy lifestyle choices. Students,
faculty and administrators who are interested in smoking cessation programs
may obtain information and support from Health Services.
While we realize that this change will be difficult for some members of the
community, we feel strongly that it is a positive step and would appreciate
your cooperation in making it work as well as possible for the community
at large.
Please contact Susan Krause at skrause@barnard.edu or 4-7518 with any questions or comments. |
