Policy on Smoking

Introduction

This policy has been adopted by the University of Glasgow concerning smoking within its premises.

Section 2(2)(e) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 places a duty on employers to provide a working environment for employees that is: safe, without risk to health, and adequate as regards facilities and arrangements for their welfare at work.

Scotland's Chief Medical Officer recognises that smoking is the main health problem facing Scotland and considers it to be the single biggest cause of preventable premature death and ill-health in the country with around 13,000 Scots dying each year from smoking-related illnesses and thousands more are admitted to hospital. Smoking causes a range of fatal diseases and there is also increasing evidence of the health risks associated with second-hand smoke. Passive smokers suffer an increased risk of smoking-related diseases and second-hand smoke is also thought to be a major cause of asthma in children. The Scottish Executive has legislated to ban smoking in public places including public houses with an implementation date of 26 March 2006.

This Policy is not concerned with whether anyone smokes but with whether they smoke in the University. In an effort to help individuals adjust to this change Smoking Concerns (Tel.: 0141 201 9825) will facilitate the provision of resources, support and assistance in the form of appropriate cessation programmes for those who wish it. Alternatively, individuals may wish to contact the Smokeline for assistance on 0800 848484.

Statement of Commitment

Smoking will not be permitted in any University building, School/RI/Service or official vehicle. All public areas in all buildings will be non-smoking.

Implementation

The Secretary of Court has overall responsibility for the Policy on Smoking, whilst Heads of Colleges together with the Heads of Central Administration and Information Services, through the appropriate Head of School/RI/Service, will be responsible for the implementation and monitoring of this Policy within their Colleges and service areas. Breaches of this Policy should be reported in the first instance to the Head of the College or Head of service, through the appropriate Head of School/RI/Service. Employees and students who persist to smoke in breach of the Policy, subsequent to informal warnings, will be considered within appropriate disciplinary procedures.

Approved by Court with effect from
1 September 2005