FIT’s tobacco-free campus policy provides guidelines and actions to help establish a healthier campus culture by supporting and promoting a tobacco-free environment.

What's the difference between a smoke-free and tobacco-free policy?

A smoke-free policy is one that limits or eliminates the use of smoke-producing tobacco products, such as cigarettes, cigars, cigarillos, mini-cigars, and hookahs. It may include new products that emit a smoke-like substance, like e-cigarettes. The primary concern of a smoke- free policy is secondhand smoke. A tobacco-free policy limits or eliminates the use of any tobacco product, including, but not limited to, cigarettes, cigars, cigarillos, mini-cigars, hookah, spit tobacco, snus, and other smokeless products. It also oftentimes includes new products, such as electronic cigarettes. The primary concern of a tobacco-free policy is the overall health and well-being of all members of the campus community.

Why is FIT going tobacco-free?

Consistent with FIT’s responsibility under the New York City Smoke-Free Air Act and FIT’s goal of creating a healthful and comfortable environment for all members of its community, the college adopted its tobacco-free policy.

What tobacco products are covered by this policy?

Tobacco is defined as all tobacco and tobacco-derived products intended for human consumption, including but not limited to cigarettes, cigars, hookah or water-pipe devices, pipes, smokeless products, clove cigarettes, beedis, kreteks, electronic cigarettes, chewing tobacco, smokeless tobacco, and snus.

To whom does this policy apply?

Every person who comes to FIT, including students, employees, visitors, volunteers, contractors, service representatives, or other persons on campus.

Where is the policy in effect?

All forms of tobacco use are prohibited anywhere on FIT campus, both indoors and outdoors, as well as in on-campus student housing and all college-owned vehicles.

Do employees, students and visitors have to quit using tobacco?

No. This policy simply means that no one can use tobacco products on the FIT campus. Because of the addictive nature of tobacco use and the understanding that breaking that addiction can be difficult, the college wants to support the efforts of those who are ready to quit.

Are other colleges and universities tobacco-free?

On June, 12, 2012, The State University of New York Board of Trustees passed a resolution to support a “Tobacco-Free SUNY” policy and the development of New York State legislation that bans the use of tobacco on grounds and facilities and in vehicles owned, leased or controlled by SUNY. Per the New York State Tobacco Free Colleges initiative, as of January 1, 2015, at least 1,514 campuses are 100% smoke free indoors and outdoors, with no exemptions, including residential housing facilities.

Why can’t there be a designated smoking or tobacco use area?

The aim of FIT’s tobacco-free policy is to create a healthful and comfortable environment for all members of its community. Designated smoking areas are not consistent with respect for the environment or wellness.

Why are e-cigarettes included in this policy?

The FDA does not regulate e-cigarettes and does not consider them to be a safe nicotine delivery system or cessation product. Prohibiting electronic cigarettes is consistent with the aim of the policy.

What is my responsibility as a campus community member in regard to the tobacco-free policy?

Everyone’s responsibility as a campus community member is to comply with this policy in a courteous, respectful and cooperative manner.

How is the tobacco-free policy being enforced?

This policy is driven by respect for others and the environment and relies on the consideration and cooperation of everyone on campus. Enforcement of this policy will depend on the cooperation of all members of the FIT community, both to comply and encourage others to do so.

What was and is being done to make employees and students aware of this policy?

Continual reminders, communications, and programs will be made throughout campus.

What is FIT doing to help employees who want to quit using tobacco products?

The Human Resources Office sends periodic emails highlighting insurance benefits and opportunities for employees. Visit Wellness and Work Life for more information.

What is FIT doing to help students who want to quit using tobacco products?

Visit FIT Health Services: Health Education for more information.

What resources are available to help me quit?

There are many quit smoking resources available both on and off campus.

Does the policy apply to student housing?

Yes, the policy applies to all areas of campus, including student housing.