Smoking Policy

As noted by the Environmental Protection Agency, the American Cancer Society, and the United States Surgeon General, tobacco smoke within confined areas creates a health hazard to both smokers and non-smokers. These hazards are increased for those suffering from allergies, respiratory diseases, or heart disease.

In an attempt to reduce the health risks associated with second-hand cigarette smoke, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts implemented a policy that invoked the elimination of smoking within the confines of state public buildings (May 1987).

Definition of Policy

BCC is dedicated to providing a healthy working and learning environment for all college students, employees and visitors. In recognition of the medical evidence which indicates that smoking is a serious health hazard extending to non-smokers breathing Òsecond handÓ smoke, the following policy will be distributed annually to all students and college departments and will be posted on all official college bulletin boards. Additional copies of this policy are available in the offices of the Dean of Student Affairs, the Dean of Administration and Finance, Health Services, and LEAD.

• As a result of the policy instituted by the Commonwealth in May 1987, all buildings on campus are smoke-free (including offices, restrooms, lobbies, and public entrances). In addition, smoking is prohibited in any campus vehicle, in the Madeline Snide Walkway, or within the quad entry area between the four central buildings (Field Administration, Susan B. Anthony College Center, Koussevitzky Arts Center, and Jonathan Edwards Library.
• To further reduce the health risks associated with second hand smoke, smoking is permitted outdoors only beyond 20 feet of any college building (except as noted above).
• Individuals should dispose of their cigarettes in the appropriate receptacles.
• The sale of tobacco products on campus is not allowed.
• Department supervisors, administrators, and security will enforce the policy.
• Violators of this policy will be subject to disciplinary action.

The success of this policy requires a college-wide cooperative effort. All members of the college community are expected to assist in this endeavor. Any employee or student who believes she/he is being subjected to second-hand smoke should inform the offending party of the existence of this policy and request that she/he adhere to its conditions. Violators of the CollegeÕs smoking policy should be reported to the Dean of Student Affairs, to the Dean of Administration & Finance, or to Campus Security.

Designated Outdoor Smoking Areas

A designated outdoor smoking area is defined as any area more than 20 feet from any college building except in the Madeline Snide Walkway or within the quad entry area between the four central buildings (Field Administration, Susan B. Anthony College Center, Koussevitzky Arts Center, and Jonathan Edwards Library).

Campus Resources

Anyone concerned about smoking and its health implications and who wishes to quit smoking may use the services provided by Health Services. A physician is available one morning per week to consult on treatment options. Additionally, a smoking cessation counselor affiliated with Berkshire Breathing Room is available at the Health Services Office. Services offered include:

• Careful planning and preparation before the quitting process begins;
• Individual quit plans;
• Consideration of all aspects of quitting (nutrition, activity level, emotional balance, etc);
• Ongoing support;
• Nicotine replacement therapy (free patch or gum), when appropriate;
• Consultation with a physician if necessary.

Off-campus resources

American Cancer Society
788 South Street
Pittsfield, MA 01201
413/445-0018

American Lung Association of Western Massachusetts
850 Main Street
Dalton, MA 01226
413/684-4747

Berkshire Breathing Room
Carol McMahon, Program Director
BMC/Hillcrest Hospital
165 Tor Court
Pittsfield, MA 01201
413/499-2602

Family Tobacco Education Program
305 North Street
Pittsfield, MA 01201
413/499-3845

Smoking Cessation Information
1/800/442-6237

This policy was developed in conjunction with the Department of Human Resources and the Divisions of Student Affairs and Administration & Finance. (July 2000)