(FILE)
WINNIPEG — Red River College is snuffing out smoking and vaping on all of its campuses beginning January 1, 2020.
The college says the new policy is part of its “commitment to provide a healthy environment for its students, employees and visitors where they can work, learn, study and live.”
The policy applies to all students, staff and faculty, including visitors to campus.
“We all share the same air. By adopting a 100% smoke-free policy, we’re eliminating exposure to second-hand smoke on campus that is known to be detrimental to people’s health, and contributes to local air pollution,” said Melanie Gudmundson, chief human resources officer, Red River College.
Smoking cessation programs and resources will be available at no cost to campus members through RRC’s Health Centre.
Exemptions to the policy will be granted to RRC community members who practice ceremonies such as smudging and pipe ceremonies on campus. Exemptions will also be made to those required to use medical cannabis.
