The University Health Network recently announced that it has committed to become a smoke-free environment. In fact, at the beginning of 2016, new Ontario regulations (Smoke-Free Ontario Act and the Electronic Cigarettes Act) were established. It bans the smoking of both tobacco and electronic cigarettes on all hospital grounds (indoor, outdoor, as well as garages). The policy applies to employees, medical staff, volunteers, patients, visitors, learners and subcontractors.
Those who are caught smoking on UHN grounds are subject to fines from by-law officers. Individuals can be fined up to $5,000 and UHN can be fined up to $300,000.
If you are seeking support to quit smoking, there are resources available through UHN’s Outpatient Pharmacies, UHN Wellness, and through Community Partners (such as Toronto Public Health, Smoker’s Helpline, and CAMH).
Thank you for your cooperation.