RIT living areas to go smoke free in 2004

More than 30 percent of universities nationwide have smoke-free residence halls. Starting in fall 2004, RIT will join their ranks—making all RIT living areas non-smoking.

A 2003 Bader grant survey at RIT found that 87 percent of incoming freshmen identified themselves as non-smokers and 5 percent as ex-smokers. Thirteen percent said they were occasional smokers compared with 17 percent of upperclassmen that are smokers (from a 2002 survey.)

“Studies show that occasional and ex-smokers are at the greatest risk for starting to smoke again in campus environments that allow smoking in dorms and promote the sale of tobacco on campus,” says Mary-Beth Cooper, vice president for student affairs.

The policy change extends from traditional residence halls to RIT’s apartments and Greek housing. Student housing at the RIT Inn & Conference Center is already non-smoking. All academic buildings are also smoke-free due to recent New York state law changes.

Cooper also cited health hazards from second-hand smoke and fire safety issues as reasons backing the policy change. Smoking-related fires are the third leading cause of college dorm fires.

“What we’re trying to convey is a message of care and safety—that’s why we’re putting this policy in place,” she adds.

During this implementation, RIT will work with the community on how to best implement smoke-free campus living. An accommodations committee is being formed to identify how RIT can make the policy work in the best interest of both smokers and non-smokers, Cooper says. To join the committee, e-mail mbcvsa@rit.edu.

“We’re not telling people they can’t smoke,” says Cooper. “Ultimately, this is for the benefit and safety of both smokers and non-smokers alike.”