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Benton County Health Department – Tobacco-Free Worksite

Why is Benton County Health Services a Tobacco-Free Property?

Oregon law prohibits tobacco use on outpatient drug and alcohol treatment program facilities and grounds (OAR 415-051-0065). Benton County Health Services is a licensed outpatient drug and alcohol treatment facility.

What Exactly Does the Law Prohibit?

The law prohibits the use of all tobacco products at all times indoors and outdoors on Benton County Health Services property. This includes doorways, covered entrances, and parking lots. In addition to cigarettes and cigars, the law prohibits use of smokeless tobacco products such as snuff or chewing tobacco.

I Thought Smoking Was Already Prohibited.  How Is This Law Different?

Smoking is prohibited inside Benton County Health Services facilities and 10 feet away from doors, windows, and ventilation intakes in accordance with the Oregon Smoke free Workplace Law. The tobacco-free property law and the smoke free workplace law differ in two significant ways. First, the tobacco-free property law prohibits use of all tobacco, not just cigarettes. Second, it prohibits use of tobacco products on the entire grounds of Benton County Health Services as well as the interior of the building.

Who Does the Law Apply To?

The law applies to anyone on the Benton County Health Services property, including employees, clients, vendors, volunteers and visitors.

Where Can I Go to Use Tobacco While Visiting Benton County Health Services?

If you plan to use tobacco products, you must leave the Benton County Health Services property. Smoking receptacles are located off the property at the North-West corner and East side of the grounds. We strongly encourage you to keep sidewalks and pathways open and place your trash in a receptacle. If you need clarification on property boundaries, please consult the Benton County Tobacco Prevention Coordinator at 541-766-6250.

What If I See Someone Smoking on Benton County Health Services Property?

Enforcement of the policy is everyone's responsibility. If a person is seen smoking on campus, assume that they aren't aware of the law. After the law is explained, most tobacco users will be happy to comply. If the person does not comply, do not insist. Information cards with a brief explanation of the law and links to quitting resources are available. Additionally, tip cards on how to talk about the law are provided to employees who directly interact with clients and the public.

How is the Law Enforced?

We expect all employees, clients and visitors to comply with the law. Complaints of violation can be made anonymously at 541-766-6250 or www.healthoregon.org/smokefree. We encourage all Benton County employees to help maintain a tobacco-free property by communicating the law to everyone who visits.

What If I Am Ready to Quit Tobacco?

Talk with your doctor about your options for quitting tobacco and/or call the Oregon Tobacco Quit Line. The Quit Line is a free telephone coaching service to help you develop a plan to quit tobacco. Call the Quit Line at 1-800-QUIT-NOW, 1-877-2NO-FUME (Español), 1-877-777-6534 (TTY), or visit www.quitnow.net/oregon/.

If you are a Benton County employee, you are provided with excellent quit benefits including telephone coaching, nicotine replacement therapy (patches, gum and lozenges) and medication. Call Benton County Human Resources at 541-766-6086 or the Oregon Tobacco Quit Line at 1-800-QUIT-NOW to find out what benefits are available. Those employees not covered by Benton County health insurance may also receive help through the Oregon Tobacco Quit Line at the same number.

Who Can I Contact If I Have Concerns or Questions?

If you have questions, contact the Benton County Tobacco Prevention Coordinator at
541-766-6250.