Smoking/Open Flame Compliance Guidelines

INTRODUCTION AND SCOPE

Arizona State University (ASU) academic, research, and ancillary organizations have various functions and operations that require specific safety precautions in place to ensure a safe environment. The university is responsible for complying with federal, state, and local regulations to protect life and property and minimize hazards. ASU Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S) is responsible for inspecting and assisting each university department and unit to ensure compliance of applicable codes and ensure a safe environment.

REQUIREMENT

Smoking
Unless smoking is prohibited because of fire code requirements, the resolution of disputes, guidance, and clarification of the university policy must go through Human Resources Employee Relations Department (University Policy SPP 305). As per the policy, smoking is prohibited in enclosed university buildings, except in areas specifically designated and identified as smoking areas. The following guidelines support compliance of state regulations and university policy:

1. Areas may be designated as smoking areas only if the area supervisor determines that the smoke cannot drift into nonsmoking areas. For more specific information see ASU Policy SPP 305 or contact Employee Relations for clarification. Also, see ASU Policy SPP 801 Conduct and Work Rules.
2. Smoking is prohibited in any area where flammable gas, liquids or other volatile materials are located or stored or in which a fire or safety hazard may exist.
3. Smoking or any open flame devices are prohibited within the designated danger zone of a hazard area, e.g., laboratories, areas identified with signage "No smoking or open flames within ___ feet," or any area that has "No Smoking" posted.
4. Smoking is permitted in enclosed and unshared university offices, unless prohibited by the area supervisor as a health hazard to nonsmokers in the area.

Complaints/Concerns
Complaints or concerns regarding the ASU smoking policy or disputes regarding its implementation should be referred to the area supervisor for resolution. Human Resources (HR) Employee Relations is available to provide guidance and clarification of the ASU Smoking Policy and to assist in the resolution of disputes. Complaints of a fire code compliance concern with smoking should be reported to ASU EH&S at 480.965.1823.

Open Flame
Open flames in an uncontrolled environment can result in costly property damage and injury/death. In some cases open flames are allowable, however, only when approved/permitted by the Campus Fire Marshal. Open flames permitted must adhere to the Uniform Fire Code.

1. Open flames in welding and cutting operations must conform to ASU Hot Work Operations/Cutting and Welding Compliance Guidelines.
2. Must be authorized by the university department or unit to conduct a controlled open flame operation or event.
3. Outdoor fires are prohibited unless approved by the ASU Fire Marshal and comply with Maricopa County environment regulations. Any approved and compliant outdoor fire must cease whenever unforeseen condition exists or arises that creates a hazard or fire danger, e.g., windy conditions, dry conditions or environmental conditions warrant no burning.
4. Barbecue grills or fireplaces are authorized as long as maintained in good condition, comply with 2-3 above, and maintain adequate distance from combustible and flammable materials as well as ensure a safe environment from exposure to heat and smoke.
5. Burning of refuge is prohibited.
6. When approved and authorized by 2-3 above, an appropriate rated/class fire extinguisher must be on site.

APPLICABLE REGULATIONS

Arizona Revised Statues – 36-601.01 –as amended; 41-2141
Arizona Administrative Code R4-36-201 et seq
University Policy SPP305

UNIVERSITY DOCUMENTS AND MANUALS

Arizona State University Fire Prevention and Safety Plan
Arizona State University Policy SPP305

This guideline is provided as a general guideline for smoking and does not cover all code compliance issues. If you have any questions or concerns, or need additional information, contact the ASU Fire Marshal and ASU EH&S insurance coordinator at 480.965.1823 or e-mail at EHS@asu.edu.