PROHIBITION OF TOBACCO PRODUCTS AT CVMC
PURPOSE:
This tobacco-free workplace Policy is to improve the health of the communities we serve, prevent illness and reduce risk and cause of disease to other patients, residents, visitors and staff. It is intended to raise the awareness about the harm caused by tobacco and provide an environment of care that is appropriate to facilitate healthier communities and reduce health care costs associated with tobacco.
POLICY:
Central Vermont Medical Center is committed to preventing illness, promoting the health and welfare of all of its patients and communities, employees, physicians, volunteers and visitors, and avoiding unnecessary health care expenditures.
There is indisputable evidence that the use of tobacco products is detrimental to good health. CVMC recognizes its responsibility to discourage such a significant health risk.
PROCEDURE:
The use of tobacco products by employees, physicians, volunteers and visitors, including independent contractors anywhere in or on the property of Central Vermont Medical Center and its satellite facilities is prohibited. Smoking and the use of tobacco products by patients of the medical center, is prohibited, while on CVMC property.
Safety is everyone’s responsibility at CVMC. Therefore it is expected that all employees will notify any violators of this policy, that the use of tobacco products is not permitted at CVMC or its satellite facilities. The approach to employees or visitors should be proactive in nature and articulating the resources in the same fashion we would direct clients to accounting, lab, diagnostic imaging or any other service or area. A non-compliant visitor shall be referred to CVMC Security for appropriate action. Appropriate action may include a request to cease the non-compliant activity; or failing to comply with the request, direct the individual to remove himself/herself from the CVMC campus or facility. Department Managers are responsible for ensuring compliance in their respective work areas. The Safety Officer should be notified only after repetitious problems or a significant safety hazard is encountered.
Resources and assistance: A variety of resources is available to employees, volunteers, medical staff and members of the public who want to quit smoking and/or the use of tobacco products. These include cessation programs, individual counseling on a limited basis and availability of Nicotine patches.
Signage: Signs will be placed conspicuously around the campus and other facilities and maintained by Plant Facilities.