TRU has changed its policy on smoking on campus to restrict smokers to nine designated areas.
The policy went into effect on Sept. 1, and restricts smoking to areas outside of Arts & Education, the Campus Activity Centre, House of Learning, the human resources building, the library, Old Main, the science building, new residence and trades. Smoking outside of these designated areas will not be permitted. Locations were chosen “based on volume, proximity to building entrances, and time allowances between classes,” according to a TRU press release.
“To fulfill its responsibility to provide a safe and healthy environment, TRU endeavors to control and reduce exposure to harmful substances by restricting tobacco use on the University’s property,” the policy reads.
The revised policy is the product of a committee “representing a cross-section of students and employees from all areas” that has received the support of TRUSU.
Respiratory Therapy students and TRU Wellness were also involved in the policy’s creation. Beginning on Sept. 11, Respiratory Therapy students will be at Tobacco Education kiosks around campus taking feedback on the new designated areas and their locations.
The Omega first reported on Janine Chan’s efforts to bring designated smoking areas to TRU in January. That report cited two studies conducted by TRU that showed support for the change. The first was a 2009 survey that showed a majority of the 549 responses wanting a smoke-free environment implemented. In 2011, another survey showed that 71 per cent of 370 respondents wanted to see a change to TRU’s tobacco use policy.
In 2013, TRU was the recipient of the B.C. Champions for Tobacco-Free Living Award, presented by the B.C. Lung Association and the Heart and Stroke Foundation.
This map, provided by the university, shows the locations of all nine of the designated smoking areas.
