The Board of Directors, for the reasons specified hereinbelow, does hereby adopt the following District smoking policy:
SMOKING POLICY
Findings and Purpose. The District Smoking Policy is enacted pursuant to Monterey County Ordinance No. 3210. Numerous studies have found that tobacco smoke is a major contributor to indoor air pollution. Reliable studies have also shown that breathing second-hand smoke is a significant health hazard for several population groups. Health hazards induced by breathing second-hand smoke include lung cancer, respiratory infection, decreased exercise tolerance, decreased respiratory function and allergies, all of which can cause forced sick leave because of adverse reactions to smoke.
The objectives of this policy are to protect employee health and to maintain a balance between those who smoke and the needs of non-smokers to breath smoke-free air, and to recognize that when these needs conflict, the need to breathe smoke-free air shall have priority.
No Smoking Areas Designated. Smoking shall be prohibited at all times a) inside the District’s administrative office building, b) in any enclosed area or place on the treatment plant site, and c) within twenty-five (25) feet of the digester tanks or the gasoline tanks at the plant. For purposes hereof “enclosed” means closed in by a roof and four (4) walls with appropriate openings for ingress and egress.
Enforcement of Smoking Policy. Because of the serious concerns about the health and safety aspects of smoking in and around wastewater conveyance and treatment facilities, as well as the impact of smoke on non-smokers in the immediate area where smoking is taking place, strict adherence to the provisions of this Smoking Policy will be enforced. Employees violating this Smoking Policy will be subject to appropriate disciplinary action.
Notice of Policy. This Smoking Policy shall be communicated to all District employees within three weeks of its adoption, and annually thereafter. A written copy of this Smoking Policy shall be provided to any prospective employee who so requests.
(Res. 1991-26, passed 9-19-1991)