William Osler Health Centre changes smoking and cell phone use policy
Starting Jan. 14

As part of a renewed focus on patient safety, William Osler Health Centre is expanding its smoke-free policy currently in place across all its properties.

From Jan. 14, 2007, smoking will not be allowed in Osler parking lots, garages, vehicles and exterior walkways, in addition to all hospital facilities, offices and off-site clinics.

Osler’s policy supports and expands on new provincial government legislation banning smoking in enclosed public places and workplaces.

The primary goal of the smoke-free initiative is to ensure that everyone is protected from exposure to tobacco smoke. “As a hospital group, we have a duty to provide a healthy environment

for patients and visitors and a healthy workplace for staff,” said Robert A. Richards, president and chief executive officer. “Creating a smoke-free facility is a basic element in doing that.”

Also as of January 2007, Osler will allow the use of cell phones, Blackberrys and other hand-held communication devices in public areas of the hospital. This will enhance the patient/family experience by helping families stay connected during hospital visits.

Visitors and patients will be able to use cell phones and other wireless communication devices safely in the main lobbies, cafeterias, waiting areas and most patient rooms.

Cell phones and wireless devices will continue to be prohibited in the Intensive Care Unit, Cardiac Care Unit, Intermediate Care Unit, Operating Rooms, Dialysis Unit, Birthing Suites, Special Care Nursery, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and Resuscitation Area in the Emergency Department.

Signage will clearly indicate where cell phones and other wireless devices may not be used. Cell phones and

wireless devices must be turned off before entering these clinical areas.

Although there is a minimal risk to patients when wireless communication devices are used correctly, the hospital is marking certain medical equipment with warning labels that will indicate wireless device use is prohibited within one (1) metre of that equipment.