We’re Smoke Free

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Smoke Free Logo

Effective May 31, 2007, the Niagara Health System (NHS) took a healthy step by making all of its buildings and properties completely smoke-free as an ongoing demonstration of its commitment to providing a safe and healthy environment at the seven hospital sites.

"Going smoke-free sends a clear message to our community that prevention is as important as treatment of illness, and that the Niagara Health System is committed to providing a safe and healthy environment at our hospitals," said Linda Boich, NHS Vice President Clinical Services. "We are among several other Ontario hospitals taking this step."

"Wherever possible, the NHS will support our inpatients who will be challenged by this initiative," Boich said.

"Staff training in smoking cessation aids is ongoing and physician-ordering of Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) through our hospital pharmacies is in place." Admitted patients who come to hospital will be asked on admission whether they smoke, and what kind of support they need to medically manage their addiction during their hospital stay.

"Our Smoke-Free Task Force has developed a comprehensive plan to support patients and staff who may be challenged by our smoke-free initiative," Boich said. "Changing our habits is never easy, and we want Niagara residents to know there will be supports available for those who require them when they come to one of our hospitals."

Click HERE to view our Going Smoke Free brochure.

Frequently Asked Questions and Answers

I will have a difficult time quitting. Can I get some help?

Yes. Through your primary care physician or nurse, the hospital offers support and information on internal and community-based programs and services.

Doesn’t this policy violate my right to smoke and personal choice?

No. There is no right to smoke enshrined in Canadian law. Canadians do have a right to a safe and secure environment and both science and law have established that any exposure to second-hand smoke is a hazard. Legal precedents clearly indicate that the office-in-charge of a community or institution has the authority to set smoking policy. An increasing number of Canadian municipalities, institutions and businesses are adopting smoke-free policies.

Why can’t I smoke outside?

Any exposure to second-hand smoke, inside or outside, is a hazard. As a health care facility, the NHS supports healthy activities and prefers to set a positive example.

Can I smoke in my car or a visitor’s car on the grounds?

No. Smoking will not be allowed anywhere on the grounds.

What will happen if I am caught smoking on the grounds?

Both patients and staff who violate this policy will be directed to appropriate smoking cessation supports. Staff members who violate this policy repeatedly will face the standard progressive disciplinary action.

Some patients who have recently been admitted will be going through nicotine withdrawal. Won’t this lead to some dangerous acting out?

Nicotine is one of the most addictive drugs known and many find it difficult to quit. Physicians and staff will support any patient experiencing withdrawal with counselling and the appropriate type of pharmaceutical therapy.

If I quit smoking will my medication needs be affected?

Nicotine is known to affect the potency of many medications, including some used in psychiatry. If you are taking prescription medication and are planning to quit, you should discuss the impact with your physician, nurse or pharmacist to determine how your changing needs should be monitored.