News

Changes to Smoking Legislation Affect St. Joseph's Hospital and the Lakehead Psychiatric Hospital

Date: 2017-08-17

The Smoke-Free Ontario Act is changing. Currently, the Act prohibits smoking tobacco in all enclosed workplaces and enclosed public places, as well as other designated places in Ontario, to protect workers and the public from the hazards of second-hand smoke. As of January 1, 2018, hospitals and psychiatric facilities must be completely smoke-free.

In preparation, starting on December 4, 2017, smoking will be prohibited on the grounds of St. Joseph's Hospital and the Lakehead Psychiatric Hospital. This is to give people time to become accustomed to the change before the legislation goes into effect.

An awareness campaign has already begun at St. Joseph's Care Group to make clients, staff and visitors aware of the change. At this stage, the focus of our efforts is on education, not enforcement:

• The changes will take effect at St. Joseph's Hospital and the Lakehead Psychiatric Hospital on December 4, 2017, giving people time to become accustomed to the change before the legislation is in effect.
• Smoking cessation supports are available to staff and clients.
• This is an opportunity for people to become healthier.

Please continue to visit our website for further information as it becomes available.