In the summer of 2006, Missouri Baptist University introduced a Designated Smoking Policy in an effort to help curb potential health risks associated with secondhand smoke for the MBU family. It is the University’s hope that this policy will help improve the quality of life for all MBU constituents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Why is there a need for a Designated Smoking Policy at MBU?
As MBU continues to grow, the need to ensure a healthy learning and work environment has become increasingly clear. The Designated Smoking Policy will better protect MBU visitors, students and faculty and staff from the ill effects associated with tobacco use.
Q. How does secondhand smoke hurt me?
The 2006 US Surgeon General's report reached several important conclusions regarding secondhand smoke:
- Secondhand smoke causes premature death and disease in children and in adults who do not smoke.
- Children exposed to secondhand smoke are at an increased risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), acute respiratory infections, ear problems, and more severe asthma. Smoking by parents causes respiratory symptoms and slows lung growth in their children.
- Exposure of adults to secondhand smoke has immediate adverse effects on the cardiovascular system and causes coronary heart disease and lung cancer.
- The scientific evidence indicates that there is no risk-free level of exposure to secondhand smoke.
Q. I smoke. What does this policy mean for me?
This policy provides specific sites on MBU’s main campus where the consumption of tobacco is allowed. Although smoking has long been deemed a leading cause of cancer and other health ailments, the policy’s purpose is to protect non-smokers’ rights to a healthy environment while on MBU’s main campus.
Q. Where are the designating smoking areas?
- Located in a gazebo between the Field Academic Hall and the Jung-Kellogg Library
- Located in a gazebo just east of the Muncy Gymnasium
Non-Sheltered
- Located near the southwest entrance of the Field Academic Hall’s lower level—at least thirty feet away from the building’s entrance.
- Located on the sidewalk between the Pillsbury Chapel and Dale Williams Fine Arts Center—at least thirty feet away from the building’s entrance.
- Located near the northeast entrance to the Pillsbury Chapel and Dale Williams Fine Arts Center—at least thirty feet away from the building’s entrance.
