Tobacco Policy

Mercer University is committed to the health and well-being of the members of its student body, faculty, and staff. The University not only has a vested interest in the vitality of its students and those who administer and operate the university’s programs of education, research, and service, but also wishes to promote the advancement of health in general and the maintenance of a healthful environment. 

The University and its medical, nursing, pharmacy, and health sciences schools, moreover, have substantial commitments to health-related research and teaching. 

In response to these considerations, the University has adopted as its goal that of achieving an environment as close to smoke-free as possible. The following guidelines are designed to achieve a relatively tobacco-free environment on the Mercer campuses:

• Smoking is prohibited in all indoor locations. All buildings on all campuses are tobacco and smoke-free. This includes vapor/electronic smoking devices. 
• Smoking is prohibited within 25 feet of all building entrances, air intakes, and windows. 
• Use of smokeless tobacco products is prohibited in all university facilities, except in individual residence halls and apartments. 

It is the responsibility of each member of the Mercer community to observe this Tobacco-Free Policy and these guidelines. This policy relies on the thoughtfulness, consideration, and cooperation of smokers and non-smokers for its success. Individuals who smoke inside of a building must be asked to leave. 

Visitors must observe this Tobacco-Free Policy. Mercer Library Building Stewards are responsible for compliance. 

The University expects a good faith, common sense, and courteous approach by students and employees in resolving conflicts within the requirements of this policy. Violation of policies will be reported to Student Affairs for students and Human Resources for employees.