Purdue University Executive Vice President and Treasurer Memoranda Master Listing
PURDUE UNIVERSITY
OFFICE OF THE EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT AND TREASURER
MEMORANDUM NO. A-31
(Supersedes Executive Memorandum No. B-21 dated September 1, 1973)
February 15, 1991
To: Vice Presidents, Deans, Directors, and Heads of Schools, Divisions, Departments, and Offices
Re: Regulations Governing Smoking in University Buildings on the West Lafayette Campus
Medical evidence clearly shows that smoking is harmful to the health of smokers. It is also an irritant to many nonsmokers and can worsen allergy conditions. According to the Surgeon General, there is evidence that long-term exposure to second-hand smoke can threaten the health of nonsmokers by increasing the risk of chronic heart and lung disease and lung cancer. In recognition of these health concerns and the need to provide a healthful environment for all employees, students, and visitors, a new policy restricting smoking within University facilities has been adopted.
The Indiana Clean Indoor Air Law prohibits smoking in classroom buildings on the campuses of Purdue University, except in locations which have been specifically designated as smoking areas. Although the law does not apply to other University buildings, the rules adopted by Purdue prohibit smoking in all University buildings except designated smoking areas. Signs will be installed at entry ways and other locations on University buildings which provide notice that smoking is prohibited except in designated areas.
Deans, directors, and department heads may designate smoking areas provided the area is separated from nonsmoking areas in a manner which assures nonsmokers are not exposed to second-hand or side-stream smoke, will not interfere with operations, and if smoking is not otherwise prohibited for reasons of health or fire safety. Only reasonable steps will be taken to establish designated smoking areas. University funds shall not be used to significantly modify ventilation systems or to make other major changes to buildings in order to accommodate smoking.
Deans, directors, and department heads shall use the following additional criteria when establishing designated smoking areas:
Private offices, enclosed by floor to ceiling walls, may be designated smoking areas provided nonsmokers in adjacent areas are not exposed to second-hand or side-stream smoke.
Large open spaces, such as dining rooms, lounges, conference rooms, and common work areas, may have a portion of the area designated for smoking provided nonsmokers in the space are not exposed to second-hand or side-stream smoke.
Break rooms may be designated smoking areas provided equivalent accommodations are available for nonsmokers.
Portions of lobbies may be designated smoking areas with the approval of the Head of the Department of Radiological and Environmental Management.
Private living spaces within housing units and hotel rooms are not subject to the Indiana Clean Air Law. Rules governing smoking may be established by the management staff in conjunction with occupants of these spaces.
For the implementation of this policy, deans, directors, and department heads are responsible for the following.
- Distribution of copies of this policy to affected employees and students.
- Designation of smoking areas where appropriate.
- Enforcement of this policy.
Questions regarding the scope, application, or interpretation of this policy should be directed to the Department Head of Radiological and Environmental Management at 4-6232. Employee relationship concerns regarding this policy should be directed to the Assistant Director of Personnel Services for Employee Relations at 4-7400.
F. R. Ford
Executive Vice President
and Treasurer
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