University Police

Smoke-Free Policy

The University at Buffalo became totally smoke free in August 1994.
Smoking is strictly prohibited in all University-owned and operated buildings, stadiums and outdoor events, and in all vehicles owned and operated by the University. Doorway areas and loading docks are considered part of the building.

Background

Health risks associated with smoking are well documented. Studies have indicated that exposure to second-hand smoke is a significant risk for the non-smoker. The University is responsible for providing a safe environment for its students, employees, and visitors. Consequently, a smoke-free policy has been implemented.

Support

Understanding the addictive nature of smoking and that breaking the habit is extremely difficult for many people, the University will make every effort to assist those who elect to stop smoking and will offer smoking cessation programs. Interested employees should contact the appropriate personnel office and students should contact the Living Well Center in the Student Union.

Other sources of information and/or assistance for employees and students seeking to quit smoking are:

Roswell Park Cancer Institute

Elm and Carlton Streets
Buffalo, NY 14263
Tel: 716-845-8046

Compliance

It is the responsibility of all members of the University community to observe this smoke-free policy and to remind others of their responsibility. Complaints relating to the implementation of this policy should be referred to the appropriate department head. If a resolution cannot be reached by the department/division head, the matter should be referred to either the appropriate personnel office or, in the case of students, to the Office of Judicial Affairs. Established rules and regulations regarding policy violations will be implemented according to one's University status (i.e., student or employee). In addition to being charged for violating the smoke-free policy, unresponsive individuals may also be charged with failure to comply with the reasonable request of a University administrator. Should someone not comply with a reasonable request, Public Safety may be involved.

Visitors must observe this smoke-free policy. Department heads, building coordinators, sponsors/hosts of University events are responsible for visitors' compliance with the University's smoke-free policy. Visitors who smoke will be requested to extinguish the cigarette, cigar, pipe, etc. and will be informed of the policy. Refusal to do so will constitute a violation of the policy and may result in removal from or denial or re-admittance to the building or event.

Download the policy document: PDF (20KB) | Word (29KB)