Wake Buildings, Properties Go Tobacco-Free Jan. 1

12/27/2007

All Wake County buildings will be tobacco-free starting January 1, 2008. The ordinance, recently approved by the Board of Commissioners, includes all buildings owned, leased or occupied by the County, including the courthouse and parking decks. Established smoking areas in County buildings will no longer be available.

The amended policy is intended to promote a safer environment while reducing staff smoking and healthcare costs to the citizens of Wake County.

Employees who need help to stop using tobacco are invited to participate in free smoking-cessation classes, held once per week for six weeks, through the Wake County Human Services department.

In addition, Wake County Human Services will implement a "100 percent tobacco-free campus" policy for staff, clients and visitors at all 14 Human Services buildings and surrounding property, starting January 1, 2008. This means employees and visitors will not be allowed to use tobacco products on the grounds of Human Services buildings.

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