Wake Human Services Buildings, Property to Go Tobacco-Free Jan. 1, 2008

8/24/2007

The Wake County Human Services and Environment Services Board voted to implement a "100 percent tobacco-free campus" policy for all Human Services buildings and surrounding property, approving the measure during its regularly scheduled monthly meeting on Thursday, August 23, 2007. The new policy goes into effect January 1, 2008.

The board amended a policy it adopted in July 2005, which allowed the use of tobacco products outside of a 50-foot perimeter of Human Services' 14 buildings. The board agreed the change is necessary due to limited success in preventing exposure to second-hand smoke near building entrances.

"The board's approval to amend the tobacco-use policy is the right step in promoting a healthy environment for our staff and clients," said Human Services Director Ramon Rojano. "We'll continue to look for ways of promoting healthier lifestyles."

The amended policy is intended to promote a reduction in staff smoking and health care costs, as well as ensure a safer environment for staff and citizens of Wake County. Smoking cessation classes are being offered to Wake County employees through the Human Services department.

In a similar move, the Wake County Board of Commissioners recently adopted an ordinance prohibiting smoking in all County-owned or leased buildings, including the Wake County Courthouse. This ordinance will also become effective January 1, 2008.

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