Al-Quds University Smoke-Free Policy
In furtherance of providing an optimal healthy and safe environment for all members of our community, Smoke-Free Policy is a step in the right direction. This initiative is an embodiment of our active commitment to the health and safety of our community, caring for the environment, and improving the quality of life for our students, faculty, staff, and visitors.
Scope The Smoke-Free Policy applies to the entire University. This includes all university buildings and open spaces, all parking lots, university vehicles, all residential facilities, and the private homes of university community members. This policy applies to all people on the university campuses including students, faculty, staff, contractors, and visitors.
Policy Features
- Signage and Communication: The university will provide adequate and appropriate ‘No Smoking’ signage in all university spaces. The university will communicate the policy through email, the university website, and in person.
- Education and Awareness: There will be educational campaigns on the health implications of smoking and the exposure to secondhand smoke. There will be an emphasis on the environmental implications of smoking with the aim of promoting a culture of health and environmental sustainability.
- Support for Tobacco Cessation: The university appreciates the challenges posed by tobacco addiction, and it will provide extensive support for individuals wanting to quit tobacco. This will encompass counseling, support groups, nicotine replacement therapy, and referrals to other cessation programs.
- Compliance and Enforcement: This policy requires the cooperation of every member of the university community. Lack of compliance will be dealt with consideration, but firmly, including reminders, warnings, and, when necessary, the disciplinary action described in the university’s policy manual.
- Designated Smoking Areas: Although the university campus is mostly smoke-free, to minimize the impact of tobacco smoke, it is possible to provide designated smoking areas at a distance from the main activities of the campus. These areas will be signposted and fitted with means to collect and dispose of used smoking materials to prevent littering.
Goals and Objectives The smoke-free policy will:
- Remove the risk of secondhand smoke exposure anywhere on campus.
- Provide a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable campus.
- Promote healthy lifestyle changes in people on campus.
- Lower the risk associated with tobacco use and improve overall community health.
Review and Amendments This policy will be reviewed annually to ensure it still meets the needs of the university and surrounding community. The revisions made will respond to health policy changes from the government, community, and environmental feedback