Tobacco Free Campus
As a top-tier research university, FSU sets the example for other organizations through its policies and practices, including those associated with the health and safety of students, faculty, staff and visitors. Hundreds of colleges and universities across the country have adopted tobacco-free policies in keeping with a growing movement that spans both private and public sector areas to restrict exposure to toxic and human cancer-causing substances.
It is important that everyone participate in the establishment and maintenance of our tobacco-free campus. This shared enforcement responsibility will ensure a healthy environment for all of us, as well as reduce the hazards, accidental fires, and costs associated with the disposal of discarded tobacco products. Please read and review the FSU tobacco free policy to ensure that you are following the specific guidelines.
The most well-known ingredient is the highly addictive stimulant known as nicotine. Since our brains have natural receptors for this chemical, people become very dependent on tobacco products. Currently smoking is the leading PREVENTABLE cause of death in the United States. In addition, nearly 9 out of 10 lung cancers are caused by smoking.
Tobacco Free Campus FAQs
Why is FSU tobacco-free?
FSU is committed to providing a safe and healthy environment for its employees, students and visitors. Research findings have clearly shown that use of tobacco products and exposures to secondhand smoke by non-users constitute a significant health hazard. Read about the American College Health Association's position statement on tobacco on campuses here.
Who will be affected?
This policy applies to all FSU students, employees, consultants, contractors, visitors and external individuals, companies renting university-owned space, and property owned or managed by FSU within the state of Florida.
Where does the tobacco-free policy apply?
Property owned or managed by FSU within the state of Florida. This includes the interiors and exteriors of all buildings, land, parking facilities, university-owned or leased vehicles (regardless of location), athletic facilities, and fraternities and sororities.
Can I smoke in my car or truck while on campus?
No. The policy prohibits smoking or other tobacco use in personal vehicles while on FSU property.
What should I do if I see someone smoking on campus?
- Respectfully ask the student, faculty/staff member or other tobacco user if s/he is aware of the FSU tobacco-free policy.
- Refer to signage and documentation related to the policy.
- Ask the student, faculty/staff member or other tobacco user if they mind refraining from using tobacco.
- If they respond negatively, do not judge what they tell you and do not engage in a heated argument.
- If the student, faculty/staff member or other tobacco user refuses to stop using tobacco, make note of the incident.
- Be polite and non-confrontational.
Media Policy
Faculty, staff and students interested in tobacco-free banners and yard signs to place in their designated areas or if you would like an item for your area that our office does not already provide, please contact Joi Alexander at Jdalexander@fsu.edu
Reporting Violations
The Tobacco-Free FSU Observance Reporting Tool will be used to analyze compliance trends and to develop and evaluate the impact of educational programming intended to increase compliance. Please do not submit photos of individuals.
