Designated Smoking Areas on College Campuses: A Comprehensive Guide

Smoking on college campuses is a topic of interest for many students, faculty, and administrators. While the idea of designated smoking areas may seem unconventional, it is common across many institutions to provide a sensible accommodation for students who smoke. This guide explores the prevalence of such areas and their strategic placement, using the example of Washington and Lee University's campus in the U.S.

Policies Across College Campuses

Across the United States, many colleges and universities have instituted policies that designate specific areas for smokers. The policy in place at Washington and Lee University for the 2023-24 academic year is indicative of a broader trend across higher education institutions.

Examples of Designated Smoking Areas

The locations of designated smoking areas vary from campus to campus. At Washington and Lee University, for instance, there are at least two spots where smokers can smoke:

First Area: Between the main student parking lot and the main classroom building. There's a booth where smokers can have their smoke before heading to class. This location is particularly convenient as it is situated just after a smoker exits their car, making it easy for them to find a place to smoke without interrupting their commute. Second Area: At the exit/entrance to the main classroom building, there is a small area where smokers can use. This spot is strategically placed to allow smokers to take a quick break between classes without making others feel uncomfortable.

Both of these locations are well chosen, providing smokers with a secluded and accessible place to smoke while minimizing disruption to the overall campus environment.

Strategic Placement of Smoking Areas

The placement of designated smoking areas is crucial for ensuring that they are used effectively and without causing disturbance to the broader campus community. Ideally, these areas should be:

Well-ventilated: To reduce the spread of secondhand smoke. Secluded: To provide a private space for smoking without disturbing others. Easily Accessible: To be convenient for students who need to quickly smoke during breaks or between classes. Distinguished: With clear signage to direct smokers to the designated area.

At Washington and Lee University, the chosen locations between the parking lot and the classroom building serve these criteria well. They are positioned to be immediately accessible to students as they transit through the campus, thus fulfilling the need for convenience while minimizing the impact on others.

Implementing and Enforcing Smoking Areas

The success of designated smoking areas depends on thoughtful implementation and consistent enforcement. Here are some key considerations:

Clear Communication

Colleges should communicate the rationale behind designated smoking areas to students, faculty, and staff. This helps to reduce any negativity associated with the policy and ensures that everyone understands its purpose.

Signage and Design

Effective signage should be placed around the designated smoking areas to guide users to these spots. The design should be clear and visible from a distance.

Regular Maintenance

The areas should be regularly maintained to ensure they are clean and inviting, which can make them more attractive to students who smoke.

Conclusion

Designated smoking areas on college campuses have become a common feature, providing smokers with a designated and often convenient place to smoke while maintaining a more considerate environment for non-smokers. The policies in place at Washington and Lee University, for example, demonstrate effective placement and thoughtful design. These areas not only meet the needs of smokers but also contribute to a healthier and more considerate campus environment.

Whether your campus already has designated smoking areas or is considering implementing them, it’s important to approach the policy with thoughtfulness, clear communication, and a focus on maintaining a respectful environment for all students, faculty, and staff.