Why is EG TAFE going totally smokefree?
EG TAFE is committed to providing a safe, healthy environment for students, visitors, volunteers and staff. This includes protecting people from the harmful effects of second-hand smoke.
Who does this policy apply to?
This policy applies to all staff, students, visitors, volunteers and contracted service providers and anyone who enters the designated boundaries of the campuses.
Are there any exceptions?
No exceptions, other than at Forestech where – because of its geographical location in the middle of a forest – there are designated smoking areas as opposed to designated smokefree boundaries.
Where is the boundary of the smokefree area?
The smokefree area extends to all designated boundaries of all controlled sites owned or leased by EG TAFE, including the visitor and staff car parks. Maps of the boundaries are available here:
Bairnsdale
Bairnsdale Trade Centre
Bullock Island
Farmtech
Forestech
Fulham
SEATS Sale
Appropriate signage will be placed prominently throughout Institute premises.
What support will be provided to staff/students who are having difficulty going without cigarettes?
The Institute will provide information about available support to assist smokers who wish to stop smoking. Smoking cessation information and support is available by ringing the Quitline on 13 78 48 or at www.quit.org.au
What should I do if I see someone smoking on Institute grounds? Signage will clearly indicate that the Institute is smokefree. If you see someone smoking within a designated boundary you may, within the limits of your own comfort, remind the person that EG TAFE is a smokefree environment. All staff are responsible for informing students, visitors and contractors about the smokefree policy.
Where and when can I smoke at EG TAFE?
Staff who choose to smoke may only do so during their approved breaks. Smoking must not occur within the designated boundaries of any campus. Managers are encouraged to support staff, as required, to adjust to the new policy in the early months of its introduction.
What happens if I smoke within the designated smokefree boundaries?
All staff members are expected to comply with all policies of the organisation including the smokefree policy. Breaches of this policy will be considered under the Institute’s Staff Code of Professional conduct or in the case of students, the Management of Student Behaviour Policy.
Am I expected to stop smoking?
No. While EG TAFE will support staff who wish to stop smoking, we are not saying that people cannot smoke or that they must stop. The smokefree policy is about people not smoking while on Institute property to ensure a smokefree environment for everyone.
What help is there if I want to stop smoking?
To make it easier for staff to give up smoking, the Institute offers the following support for Institute staff:
- $50.00 towards the cost of Nicotine Replacement Therapy (under the supervision of your doctor) or Quit Course
- Provide information for available support
- Referral to Quit Courses.
What if I have other questions about the Smokefree Policy?
Talk to your Manager or a member of the OHS Committee.
Thank you for your cooperation during this time of change and for helping us create a healthier environment for everyone who visits and works at East Gippsland Institute of TAFE.
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