Stronger Protection for Non-Smokers in TUK's Outdoor Areas
During hot summers, it’s important to ventilate—not only to replace the hot air with fresh air, but also to reduce the risk of infection with the coronavirus () via aerosols. However, since ashtrays—and thus smokers—are usually located in the entrance areas of buildings, numerous employees from nearby offices complained to the Workplace Health Management (BGM) program about smoke pollution around the buildings. A joint survey conducted by BGM and the Student Health Management (SGM) on this topic first identified the key areas of risk posed by smoking and also showed that many of those affected would like to see further measures to protect against secondhand smoke, including in the outdoor areas of TUK.
Together with the university leadership and the staff council, the Occupational Health Management program subsequently developed a “Service Agreement on Protection for Non-Smokers,” which took effect on December 1, 2020. The regulations serve “the goal of protecting all TUK employees as effectively as possible from health risks associated with active and passive consumption of tobacco products and related smoking products.” Needless to say, students and guests are also expected to benefit from the reduction in involuntary secondhand smoke on campus.
The measures to relocate smoking areas are being implemented in several phases. Ashtrays located very close to the buildings are being removed—initially in the most heavily affected areas, such as the cafeteria and the administration tower. Two new smoking shelters have been built here, offering smokers a clearly defined, covered area not far from the two building complexes. Additional smoking areas on campus are planned and will gradually replace the ashtrays around the buildings. The overarching goal here is a smoke-free campus. A signage system will in the future direct people to the newly created smoking areas.
The beautifully designed posters created by the Photo-Repro-Print Department on the glass walls of the smoking booths serve as a reminder to always be mindful of environmental and health protection. And should any smokers among the users of the glass booths be looking to quit, they can find support through special programs offered by Human Resources Development, as the company physician and addiction counseling services provide advice, information, and even seminars on smoking cessation.
“We are very pleased that the Student Services Organization has also been exceptionally open to our project,” said Birgit Munz, head of Department Z and director of the Corporate Health Management program. “That’s the only way we were able to create a smoking area right in front of the cafeteria.” “I would also like to thank the Photo-Repro-Print Department for their excellent cooperation and creative ideas, as well as the Facilities Services Department for their thorough preparation and follow-up work for the campaign,” praised the BGM representative, who also held out the prospect of the prompt implementation of the protective measures outlined in the service agreement.