Tobacco, Smoking and Vaping Reduction Act & AHS Policy

Question 1

What are some exceptions to the AHS Tobacco and Smoke Free Environments Policy?

Answer 1

-In some instances, sites will exempt certain areas from the policy, like a smoking gazebo or smoking area on site.

-Traditional Aboriginal spiritual or ceremonial practices like smudging.
(pg.6)

Question 2

Who may approve a smudging ceremony on AHS property?

Answer 2

Property management, the Indigenous Health Program, and potentially spiritual care.
(pg.6)

Question 3

What do you do if you encounter a staff member smoking where they shouldn’t?

Answer 3

Educate, redirect, and request they refrain from using tobacco products on AHS property.

If staff refuses, a report is written and forwarded to the Protective Services TL/Site Manager.

3 or more instances require the same action as above.
(pg.7)

Question 4

What do you do if you encounter a patient smoking where they shouldn’t?

Answer 4

Educate, redirect, and request they refrain from using tobacco products on AHS property.

If patient refuses, a report is written and forwarded to the Protective Services TL/Site Manager.

3 or more instances require the same action as above.
(pg.7)

Question 5

Section 3 identifies where smoking is prohibited under the TSVRA. What are the areas most relevant to an AHS Peace Officer?

Answer 5

3.
(a) On a hospital property, including the building, grounds, and parking areas used in relation to the hospital property
(i) Within a prescribed distance from a doorway, window, or air intake of any place referred to in i
(pg.8)

Question 6

What additional areas is it illegal for a minor to possess or consume a tobacco or vaping product?

Answer 6

(b) In any outdoor place or area to which members of the public have access as of right or by express or implied invitation, including a highway within the meaning of the Traffic Safety Act, or
(c) in a vehicle that is in a place referred to in section 3 or in an outdoor place or area referred to in this clause (b).
(pg.11)

Question 7

What are some impact factors to consider before enforcing the TSVRA?

Answer 7

-Location of Offence
-Subject Category (visitor, staff, patient)
-Spaces available for redirection
-Expectations of site admin
-Expectations of Protective Services site management
(pg.12)

Question 8

When is someone allowed to smoke marijuana on AHS property?

Answer 8

While marijuana isn’t covered under the TSVRA, it is against AHS policy to smoke marijuana on AHS property. Individuals must have express written consent from AHS to be permitted to smoke on property.
(pg.13)