The Smoking standard ensures a healthy, smoke-free environment for all students, staff, and visitors. Smoking includes the use of tobacco or other materials intended for smoking (such as cigarettes and cannabis), as well as all types of e-cigarettes, vaping devices, and any other instruments used to emulate smoking. This includes pipes, water pipes, hookahs, holders, and similar devices that produce airborne contaminants or substances.

NSCC is committed to maintaining a smoke-free environment in line with provincial laws and municipal bylaws, prioritizing the wellness of the campus community. Smoking is not allowed within Campus Housing or on any NSCC property, except in designated outdoor smoking areas.

Summary of Expectations:

• Smoking of tobacco, cannabis, or any other materials is not permitted in Campus Housing or on any NSCC property, except in designated outdoor smoking areas.
• The use of e-cigarettes, vaping devices, or any other instruments that produce airborne contaminants (such as hookahs, bongs, or pipes) is prohibited within Campus Housing and on NSCC property.
• Cannabis smoking must be done only in the appropriate designated cannabis consumption areas and in accordance with NSCC’s Drug and Alcohol Guidelines.
• All smoking-related activities, including vaping, must be confined to outdoor areas designated for smoking, in line with NSCC’s smoke-free policy.

This policy supports the health and well-being of all those living and working within the NSCC community by reducing exposure to harmful substances and promoting a cleaner, safer environment.

Examples of Breaches of the Smoking Standard

The following are examples of violations that may occur in Campus Housing. Please note that these examples are fictitious and have been created by NSCC Housing & Student Life staff as hypotheticals, based on years of experience working in housing. They are not reflective of current student violations. Responses to violations may vary depending on the specific circumstances, including the severity of the behavior, the impact on others, and any prior violations. The details of each situation will be carefully considered before determining the appropriate action.

• A student is observed vaping right outside the entrance door to their Campus Housing building, in an area that is not designated as a smoking or vaping zone. While this action does not directly take place inside the building, the vapor can drift into the building and disturb others who are sensitive to smoke or prefer a smoke-free environment. (Level 1 Violation)
• A student continuously comes back through the building after smoking, with a heavy smell of cannabis. This disrupts the peaceful environment of the building, as the smell of cannabis can spread to neighboring rooms, potentially disturbing other residents. The student is reminded of the designated outdoor smoking areas and spoken to about ways to prevent odor when returning from smoking outside. (Level 2 Violation)