From 1 August 2017, all Imperial campuses (including our hospital campuses) and properties became smoke-free. This policy was put in place to support the university's commitment to creating a healthy environment for staff, students, visitors, and the community.
The university has a responsibility to limit our community’s exposure to passive smoking under the Health and Safety at Work Act and the Health Act 2006. Evidence proves that the provision of smoke-free policies reduces smoking and exposure to second-hand smoke, which is particularly important for the health and wellbeing of others, in addition to those with pre-existing respiratory conditions.
Guidance for staff and managers
- Where is smoking not permitted?
- Is the use of e-cigarettes permitted in university buildings and surroundings?
- How can the policy be enforced further?
- What support is in place if I wish to stop smoking?
Smoking is not permitted in University buildings or outside on University campuses or in University vehicles. All staff, students and visitors are not permitted to smoke within 20 metres of universityland and property.
Imperial campuses and properties include:
- South Kensington
- Medical Campuses: Charing Cross, Hammersmith, St Mary's, Chelsea & Westminster and Royal Brompton.
- Silwood Park
- White City
- Heston, Harlington and other sports facilities
There is a limited exception of Beit Quad (South Kensington) on Wednesday & Friday evenings during term time when major ticketed events are being held.
As our campuses are in proximity to residential homes, businesses and schools, we ask staff, students and visitors to be mindful of the health and well-being of our neighbours and community.
The use of e-cigarettes (in addition to all substances that a person can smoke by whatever method) is not permitted in university buildings. Although the effects of these products are less harmful than tobacco smoking, they still carry other negative effects and can still affect the health and wellbeing of other staff members.
All staff (particularly those in management positions) and students are encouraged to help enforce the policy by politely approaching someone they see smoking on campus.
If you approach somebody who refuses to either cease smoking or move 20 metres (or more) away from the university campus, please contact smoke.free@imperial.ac.uk, and they will look into this further.
The responsibility for adhering to this policy rests with all university members, and it is your duty to ensure that your colleagues, students and visitors are aware of the policy.
The university will provide assistance and support to staff and students who are considering stopping smoking or have already stopped.
There is support available through the university's Health and Wellbeing page including self-referral to Occupational Health for six free weekly sessions delivered by a trained advisor. Staff and students are also advised to review the advice and support on the NHS "Ways to Quit" web page.
If you are a student who is carrying out a placement with NHS Trusts, you can also enquire about their local Trust arrangements in place to support those who wish to quit smoking.