Bahçeşehir University Smoke-Free Campus Policy
1. Policy Statement
Bahçeşehir University is dedicated to creating and maintaining a healthy, safe, and sustainable campus environment that supports the physical and mental well-being of its students, faculty members, administrative staff, and visitors. In accordance with the University’s commitment to public health and the protection of all community members from the harmful effects of tobacco and second-hand smoke, all Bahçeşehir University campuses have been officially designated as smoke-free environments.
2. Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to:
Protect all individuals on campus from exposure to second-hand smoke.
Promote a culture of health, wellness, and environmental responsibility.
Support members of the University community who wish to quit smoking by providing access to cessation resources.
Ensure that University facilities comply with national health regulations and contribute to global sustainability and well-being goals, particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being).
3. Scope of the Policy
This policy applies to all Bahçeşehir University students, faculty, administrative personnel, contractors, vendors, and visitors. It covers all University-owned, leased, and operated properties, including but not limited to:
Academic and administrative buildings
Residence halls and dormitories
Laboratories, clinics, and classrooms
Libraries, cafeterias, and social areas
Private offices, meeting rooms, and hallways
Balconies, terraces, and all outdoor common areas
University vehicles and inactive private vehicles parked within campus premises
Smoking, vaping, or the use of any tobacco product or electronic cigarette is prohibited in all of these areas.
4. Prohibited Activities
The following activities are strictly prohibited on all Bahçeşehir University campuses:
The use of cigarettes, cigars, pipes, hookahs, electronic cigarettes, or any other smoking devices.
The sale, advertising, or distribution of tobacco or nicotine-related products.
Smoking near or at the entrances, exits, or ventilation systems of University buildings.
5. Implementation and Signage
To ensure awareness and compliance, clear signage designating all Bahçeşehir University campuses as smoke-free areas is placed throughout University facilities, including building entrances, outdoor spaces, and parking lots.
University Security and Facility Management units are responsible for maintaining these areas and ensuring enforcement of the policy.
6. Support and Cessation Programs
Bahçeşehir University recognizes that quitting smoking can be challenging and encourages all members of its community to seek support. The University provides access to:
Information on national and local smoking cessation programs and hotlines.
Educational workshops and awareness campaigns organized by the Health Center and Counselling Services.
Referrals to medical professionals or public health institutions for individuals seeking cessation guidance or nicotine replacement therapies.
These initiatives are regularly promoted through the University’s communication channels, ensuring that all students and staff are aware of the available resources.
7. Enforcement
All members of the Bahçeşehir University community share the responsibility for upholding this policy.
8. Review and Commitment
This policy is reviewed annually by the Office of the Rector in coordination with the Health and Safety Committee to ensure its continued effectiveness and alignment with national and international public health standards.
Through this Smoke-Free Campus Policy, Bahçeşehir University reaffirms its commitment to safeguarding the health and well-being of all community members, reducing environmental pollution, and promoting a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable campus environment.
Created: 2021
Updated: 2024
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