Non-smoking versus Tobacco-Free – they are not the same

As of right now, The Ohio State University is a non-smoking campus, but January 1, 2014 that will change.  A new policy is going into effect to make The Ohio State University tobacco-free.  Non-smoking, tobacco-free, what’s the difference?

The current Non-Smoking Policy:

  • Prohibits smoking inside of any Ohio State building or facility (owned, operated, or leased)
    • This includes any tobacco product that is generally smoked, such as cigarettes, cigars, pipes, etc.
  • Permits smoking outdoors with the exception of
    • Building entrances
    • Designated tobacco-free zones
    • Stadiums, amphitheaters and other such outdoor facilities

The new Tobacco-Free policy:

  • Prohibits the use of tobacco products on Ohio State property (owned, operated, or leased), indoors or outdoors.
    • This includes ALL tobacco products, regardless of whether or not they can be smoked.

Long story short, effective January 1, 2014, all tobacco products are banned from The Ohio State University.

Submitted by Brandi Elking, Health Sciences Student

Reviewed by Tina Comston, M.Ed.