The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center staff will be smoke- and tobacco-free during the work day beginning July 1, 2014.
The ban on smoking covers all UPMC staff, including employees, physicians and volunteers. In order to help staff prepare for working without needing a smoke break, the organization will provide staff with support and preparation, according to the news release. UPMC will continue to hire smokers.
"Our patients are best cared for, and both patients and visitors have the best experience when our employees are at their very healthiest and when the workplace is free of tobacco. This initiative takes us a step further in solidifying our commitment to our patients and to our valued employees," Gregory Peaslee, senior vice president and chief of human resources and administrative services officer, said in the release.
UPMC's campuses have been smoke-free since 2007.
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