Keeping OHSU Tobacco-Free
OHSU is committed to sustaining a clean and tobacco-free environment. Since the tobacco-free policy went into effect in September 2007, we have reduced second-hand smoke on campus by 65 percent. However, some employees are continuing to smoke on campus, which models non-compliance of the policy for our patients and visitors as well.
To help improve compliance, OHSU Public Safety is beginning a new enforcement plan that requires a close partnership with managers to jointly address employee smoking on the OHSU campus. As part of this plan, beginning July 13th, Public Safety will report employees who are repeatedly observed smoking on campus to their managers for follow-up. It is each manager’s responsibility to address any employee violations of the tobacco-free policy, as with all OHSU policies.
For complete information on the stepped-up enforcement plan and the manager’s role in keeping OHSU tobacco-free, review the Tobacco-Free Manager Guide.
Assisting Employees Who Use Tobacco
OHSU does not expect nor require that anyone quit tobacco use. However, many tobacco users want to quit. To help those that do, OHSU offers free and low-cost resources.
Managers can download the Tobacco-Free Employee Guide for more information on sustaining a tobacco-free OHSU, including accessing the support resources. The handout also includes Support Benefits for OHSU Employees and Students Who Use Tobacco and how to access them.
Employees can access benefits by:
- Contacting the OHSU Employee Wellness Program at 1-800-941-5590 or visit: http://www.ohsu.edu/tobaccofreesupport for coaching and advice
OR
- Contacting the OHSU Pharmacy at 503 494-8563, by e-mail at Rxfree@ohsu.edu, or in person for medications.
Note: Access to free non-prescription medications is available only through the OHSU Pharmacy.
