UC IRVINE ADMINISTRATIVE POLICIES & PROCEDURES

California Codes, Government Code, Sec. 19994.30-19994.35

UC President's Directive - Smoking Policy, 12/3/03

A. Background

The Surgeon General of the United States has determined that cigarette smoking is the leading preventable cause of illness and premature death in the United States. Moreover, there is now conclusive evidence that non-smokers who are regularly exposed to passive (second-hand) tobacco smoke are also at increased risk of illness. Passive tobacco smoke appears to be especially deleterious to the health of certain population groups, including the elderly, children, and persons with allergies, asthma, respiratory diseases or cardiovascular disease. It is necessary, therefore, to protect the UCI population from this substantiated hazard.

B. Policy

UCI endeavors to maintain a safe and healthful environment. As a leader in health-related research and teaching, the University has a special institutional obligation to maintain such an environment. Consistent with this obligation and state law:

1. Smoking is prohibited throughout all indoor areas of public buildings on campus.

2. Smoking is prohibited inside all undergraduate residential facilities, on any balconies or patios, and within 25 feet of residential buildings.

3. Smoking is prohibited in outdoor areas within 25 feet (or more depending on special circumstances) of entrances, exits, operable windows, ventilation air intakes, and any other locations where smoke may be brought into a UCI facility.

4. Smoking is prohibited throughout the Student Center complex, including all patio, courtyard, seating and terrace areas.

5. Smoking is prohibited in all university-owned vehicles including shuttles, automobiles, and all types of delivery, maintenance, and service vehicles.

6. Sale and advertising of tobacco products are prohibited in UCI facilities except for advertising contained in newspapers, magazines, or other written materials lawfully sold, bought, or distributed within such facilities.

C. Compliance

Implementation of this policy is the responsibility of all faculty, staff, students, and visitors to the campus. It is the responsibility of the Vice Chancellors, Deans, Directors, and Department Heads to assure that employees under their respective jurisdictions comply with this policy. Any conflicts resulting from implementation of the policy shall be brought to the attention of the appropriate supervisory personnel and, if necessary, referred to the appropriate Vice Chancellor, Dean or Director who shall make a final decision.

D. Education

UCI supports and assists efforts to stop smoking. UCI Health Education Center provides stop-smoking kits, printed resources, and other cessation information.