Tobacco smoking has been clearly established as a preventable cause of illness. Current research indicates that tobacco smoke exposure in confined areas also poses a health hazard to non-smokers. Smoke from cigarettes, cigars and pipes are also irritants to many non-smokers and can exacerbate allergic conditions.
In an effort to protect the health of University students, faculty, staff and visitors, as well as to comply with state law (TCA 4-4-121), it is the policy of the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga to restrict tobacco use in all buildings.
T.C.A. 4-4-121 Smoking shall be prohibited in all buildings that are owned or operated by the State of Tennessee, except for those sleeping rooms in state park inns and cabins that are designated as smoking rooms or cabins. It is the intent of the general assembly that all buildings that are owned or operated by the state other than sleeping rooms in state park inns and cabins designated for smoking shall be completely smoke-free.
This policy shall be interpreted as meaning that the use of smokeless tobacco products will be prohibited in the same areas as tobacco smoking.
POLICY:
The use of tobacco products is prohibited in all buildings owned or leased by the University, either on or off campus.
NON-SMOKING AREAS
- Smoking is prohibited inside any building owned or leased by the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga.
- Smoking is prohibited in University vehicles.
- Outdoor Areas:
- Entrances to buildings - Entrances are defined as those doorways to buildings normally used for public ingress/egress and ADA accessible entrances. Smoking within 25 feet of these entrances is prohibited.
Appropriate signage indicating the prohibition of the use of tobacco shall be installed on all buildings and in areas exterior of buildings where tobacco usage is prohibited.
PERMITTED OUTDOOR SMOKING AREAS
Any outdoor area not specifically designated a non-smoking area.
The Facilities Division shall place appropriate tobacco use receptacles in strategic locations outside of selected buildings.
ENFORCEMENT:
Enforcement of this policy shall be granted, but not limited to, the person responsible for activities carried out within the particular room and/or facility.
VIOLATIONS:
University Faculty and Staff:
Violation of the provisions of the Tobacco Use policy will constitute a violation of the University work rules. Appropriate disciplinary actions may be taken by the supervisor.
Students:
Violation of the provisions of the Tobacco Use policy will constitute a violation of the student rules of conduct pursuant to the UTC Student Handbook. Appropriate disciplinary actions may be taken by the Office of Student Development.
Updated:9/14/2006
