Frequently Asked Questions
Who does the policy affect?
This policy applies to all students, employees and visitors who are on the TWU Denton or Dallas Campuses. The Houston campus is subject to the Houston city regulations.
Where can I receive assistance in quitting smoking?
A resource guide is available on the Wellness website and on the HR website.
How will people know that TWU is a smoking restricted campus?
The policy will be circulated to the university community via e-mail, HR Website as well as notices in the employee newsletter, HR Messenger as well as in the Student and New Employee Orientations, and through other venues.
How will this policy be enforced?
The university’s primary goal is to achieve voluntary compliance with the policy by educating student, faculty, staff and visitors about the policy and providing smoking cessation information to anyone who seeks it. However, should enforcement be necessary, the progressive discipline action will be utilized.
How do I know where to go to smoke?
A map of the campus with designated smoking areas marked is available on the HR and Wellness websites. Also all designated smoking areas have signage that identifies them.
What should I do if I see someone smoking in a smoke free area?
Anyone who sees individuals smoking outside the designated areas are asked to inform the individuals politely that TWU policy prohibits smoking except in designated areas. Individuals who do not feel comfortable approaching someone violating the policy should contact their immediate supervisor or department head or the Office of Student Life. During the transition, we ask that all members of the TWU community treat each other with dignity and respect, support each other and embrace the spirit of having a healthful living, learning and working environment.
Don’t I have a right to smoke on campus?
No; there is no “right” to smoke under either state or federal law. In addition, prohibiting smoking and the use of smoking products on campus preserves everyone’s right to breathe clean, smoke-free air while allowing adults who smoke and use smoking products to continue to do so in designated areas. The policy thus accommodates both smokers and non-smokers.
How should managers/supervisors talk to employees about the policy?
It is recommended that managers/supervisors should inform all employees of this policy and seek their cooperation with compliance. Supervisors will be expected to communicate the smoking cessation assistance opportunities to interested employees. Assistance is available through the Office of Human Resources.
The policy says that smoking products are prohibited in the workplace except in designated smoking areas. Does this mean that I can’t have cigarettes in my possession while in my office?
No, the policy is concerned with the use of tobacco products. Personal possession is not prohibited.
What types of smoking cessation information is furnished? And who will furnish the information?
Smoking cessation programs are available through ERS, the group health insurance plan United Healthcare Wellness Program. A handout listing resources is available on the Wellness website.