It’s important to everyone who comes to Niagara Health to know they’re visiting a healthy and smoke-free hospital. That’s why we’ve proudly been completely smoke-free since May 2007.
While most people are aware you can’t smoke indoors, what you may not know is that the Smoke-free Ontario Act and Niagara Health’s workplace policy also prohibits smoking in any outdoor space on hospital property as well. This includes exterior grounds, parking lots and even inside your vehicle.Niagara Health and Niagara Region Public Health have partnered to form the Smoke-Free Task Force to launch a smoke-free awareness campaign.
We’re taking this opportunity to remind patients, visitors, staff, physicians and volunteers that if you are going to smoke while visiting any Niagara Health site, you must completely leave the property. Vaping and using electronic cigarette products are also not allowed under Niagara Health’s workplace policy.
Niagara Health is committed to providing a healthy environment for patients, visitors, staff, physicians and volunteers and has a responsibility to ensure compliance under the Smoke-free Ontario Act.
Tobacco Control Officers are responsible for enforcing the Smoke-Free Ontario Act. An individual found smoking in a smoke-free area (indoor or outdoor) of a hospital may be charged with an offence, and if convicted, could face a maximum fine of $1,000 (for a first offence).
“Being smoke-free sends a clear message that we are committed to our vision of A Healthier Niagara,” says Linda Boich, Niagara Health Executive Vice President, Quality, Community Development and Mental Health & Addictions. “We thank you for your co-operation in helping us maintain a healthy environment.”
Resources and Support
- Smoker’s Helpline at 1-877-513-5333 or visit: www.smokershelpline.ca
- Niagara Region Public Health 1-888-505-6074 ext. 7393
Media contact: Lisa Pepperall, Communications Specialist 905-378-4647, ext. 47576; Lisa.Pepperall@niagarahealth.on.ca
