UCSF to Go Smoke Free on November 20

UCSF is proud to join a growing number of health-care institutions across the country that have become 100 percent smoke-free environments. Effective November 20, UCSF will become a 100 percent smoke-free workplace to protect the health of our patients, visitors and staff from the dangers of secondhand smoke. 

In a 2006 report, The Health Consequences of Involuntary Exposure to Tobacco Smoke, the U.S. Surgeon General concluded that the “Scientific evidence indicates that there is no risk-free level of exposure to secondhand smoke. Breathing even a little secondhand smoke can be harmful to your health.”

As a health sciences institution, we have a responsibility to assume a leadership role in reducing the health hazards related to secondhand smoke. In accordance with policy, smoking will not be permitted on any property leased or owned by UCSF. Designated smoking areas on Parnassus and at Mt. Zion will be removed.

We recognize that the inability to smoke on campus will be difficult for some people. For this reason, UCSF is committed to offering the best tobacco treatment for patients and staff. UCSF has redesigned the in-patient tobacco treatment program and offers programs to help staff and visitors who smoke. Information and resources are available on the “Smoke Free Workplace” website: http://ucsfhr.ucsf.edu/index.php/general/article/ucsf-a-smoke-free-workplace/.

Policy enforcement continues to be the responsibility of managers and supervisors. However, the security units for both the Campus and Medical Center have agreed to assist in an education effort by distributing information cards to individuals they see smoking in areas not permitted by policy. It is hoped that employees will be respectful and supportive of this important smoke-free effort.

Questions or concerns may be directed to Labor Relations Coordinator Mark Gottas, Human Resources, at mgottas@hr.ucsf.edu or 514-2452.