Frequently Asked Questions Tobacco Free Campus Initiative
As with any new policy implementation, there will be questions regarding how the policy will impact students, staff and visitors. Below are some key talking points to remember in responding to questions.
When was the policy first implemented?
January 1, 2007
Why was the policy implemented?
This initiative was originally brought forth by Student Government in response to requests by the student body in 2006 to reduce secondhand smoke exposure on campus. At that point in time, other major employers in the La Crosse area (Gundersen Lutheran, Franciscan Skemp, Trane Company, City of La Crosse, La Crosse County Health Department, UW-L, and Viterbo) along Western were looking to work toward tobacco-free policies. As a result, a community-wide coalition was formed to work together. Gundersen Lutheran and Franciscan Skemp hospitals implemented tobacco-free campuses at the same time as Western.
There are many reasons why Western decided to implement a tobacco-free campus. See “Reasons for a Tobacco-Free Campus”. However, the main reason the policy was implemented was to create a healthier environment for everyone who comes to Western Technical College to study, work, or visit. There is no safe amount of secondhand smoke. Breathing even a little secondhand smoke can be dangerous regardless if the exposure is indoors or outdoors.
Who does this policy affect?
All students, staff, contract/other employees, contractors, service representatives and visitors on all Western campuses.
Can I smoke in my personal car?
Parking lots owned and operated by Western are included in the ban; however, there will be no effort to enforce the ban in private vehicles located on College property, provided users make reasonable effort to contain smoke and tobacco materials inside the vehicle (ex. Keeping windows closed, keeping all waste products, including cigarette butts, inside the vehicle, etc.).
How is this policy communicated to students, staff and visitors?
The Tobacco-Free Work Group, a committee made up of staff and students, work to educate all staff, students, and visitors at Western about the Tobacco-Free policy through an ongoing comprehensive communication plan.
Does this policy apply to City-owned streets, sidewalks and right-of-ways?
Western has no jurisdiction over the use of City-owned streets, sidewalks and right-of-ways. However, the sidewalks on 7th Street between Badger Street and Vine Street have been designated as a “Courtesy Zone.”
What is a Courtesy Zone?
A Courtesy Zone is a section of city property that the College asks individuals to refrain from using tobacco out of courtesy for the high volume of Western students, staff and visitors who use the walkway.
Why was a Courtesy Zone implemented?
In April 2009, the Tobacco-Free Work Group implemented a survey to individuals who use tobacco to gather their opinions and ideas surrounding the concerns of secondhand smoke exposure, litter, and safety as a result of people gathering on the sidewalks to use tobacco. Survey responses were collected via face-to-face interviews with tobacco users on campus and electronically. Over 70% of tobacco users indicated that they would support making the sidewalks on 7th Street between Badger Street and Vine Street a Courtesy Zone as a way to help eliminate secondhand smoke exposure in high traffic areas. From these results, the Tobacco-Free Work Group decided to pursue the implementation of a Courtesy Zone.
Is the MTU bus shelter Western property?
Yes, there is NO tobacco use permitted in the bus shelter. Not only is the bus shelter Western’s property, but the shelter should be used for MTU riders only.
If I choose to use tobacco off Western property, are there ash dispensers available for me to dispose of my waste?
Yes, ash dispensers are located around the perimeter of campus. See locations of ash dispensers. We encourage all individuals who use tobacco to respect the beauty and cleanliness of our campus and ensure all tobacco waste is disposed of properly.
How is the policy enforced?
The goal of the policy is to promote a healthier environment for everyone. With that in mind, the focus is on self-enforcement. Enforcement will depend upon the cooperation of all faculty, staff, and students, not only to comply with the policy, but also to encourage others to comply with this policy in order to promote a healthier environment to work, study and live.
What should I do if I encounter someone using tobacco on Western property?
Accordingly, tobacco users are expected to voluntarily comply with the policy. Anyone who observes a possible violation may courteously, compassionately, and without confrontation inform the individual of the tobacco-free policy and attempt to offer an information card that states the policy and offers cessation resources. See “How to Address People Using Tobacco on Campus” for additional info.
What should I do if I encounter someone repeatedly using tobacco on Western property or they are uncooperative?
Contact the appropriate person (Student Development Manager for students and supervisor for faculty/staff) in writing (e-mail or written) of the situation including name of offender, dates, and any additional information about the policy violation. Repeat violations of the policy will be handled through already-established judicial/discipline procedures for both students and staff. See Student Handbook or Employee Handbook.
What should I do if I encounter someone using tobacco in the Courtesy Zone?
Accordingly, tobacco users are expected to voluntarily comply with the Courtesy Zone. Anyone who observes non-compliance may courteously, compassionately, and without confrontation inform the individual of the tobacco-free policy and attempt to offer an information card that states the policy and offers cessation resources. See “How to Address People Using Tobacco on Campus” for additional info.
How should managers/supervisors talk to employees about the policy?
It is recommended that managers/supervisors should inform all employees of this policy both in writing and in person.
What should managers/supervisors do if one of their employees violates the policy?
Violations of College policy should be addressed through established procedures and processes.
As a smoker, do I have to quit smoking?
No, the policy just stipulates that you cannot use tobacco products on College property. For those who do choose to quit, information regarding cessation programs and resources are available. Learn more about tobacco cessation resources.
