GBEB-R: A Smoke-Free Working and Learning Environment

Objective:    To provide a smoke-free working and learning environment for all employees and students. 

Rationale for the Implementation of a Smoke-Free Environment 

Since 1990 September 01, all Board of School Trustees (the “Board”) buildings and grounds have been smoke-free areas.  Staff, students, and members of the community using school facilities are not permitted to smoke in any area of the Board properties. 

The Board is concerned about the health and safety of all staff and about good role-modelling for its students.  Smoking in designated areas would reinforce the acceptability of smoking behaviour among the student population. 

The implementation of a smoke-free environment is generally successful, if a good communication process between management and staff is initiated and adequate notice is given to employees, accompanied by an effective counselling and support program.

Through the District Health and Safety Consultative Committee, the Board conducted a survey of district schools and departments.  Eighty-one percent of the respondents were in favour of the new policy, and the Board reaffirmed the smoke-free environment policy on 1991 March 18. 

This policy applies to all Board employees.  Failure to meet the Board’s requirements in relation to a smoke-free working and learning environment is considered to be a serious breach of an employee’s obligations which may result in discipline or dismissal. 

Education Centre 

All areas of the new Education Centre and grounds are included in the smoke-free working and learning environment policy. These include the following: the main building and parkade, the front entrance, the walkway under the overhang, and the glass covered mid-block connector. 

Support Procedures 

• Since June 1990, the Board has made funds available to support employees who wish to participate in a smoking cessation program of their choice. Employees may apply for a 50% subsidy, upon completion of the program of their choice, up to a maximum of $150.  Employees may contact the office of the Secretary-Treasurer for authorization of reimbursement. 
• An information package on smoking cessation programs can be made available to employees upon request to the office of the Secretary-Treasurer. 
• Employees may also contact the office of Wilson Banwell and Associates Limited, #1610 - 355 Burrard Street, Vancouver, B. C., V6C 2G8, telephone: 689-1717 for confidential information on stress management consultation or referrals.

DMT Responsibility: AS-HR