NCJ Number
112617
Journal
American Jails Volume: 2 Issue: 2 Dated: (Summer 1988) Pages: 20-21,23
Date Published
1988
Length
3 pages
Annotation
In keeping with the Utah Indoor Clean Air Act, Davis County Sheriff Brant Johnson developed a no smoking policy for implementation in County jails.
Abstract
In developing the policy, Johnson enlisted the the assistance of various health professionals and examined smoke-free policies in other institutions. Although employees originally were resistant to the policy, feeling that nicotine deprivation would increase stress on inmates, open discussion facilitated implementation. Johnson also sought a legal opinion on the constitutionality of the policy prior to implementation. Counsel concluded that the risk of of claims would be greater without the policy than if smoking were allowed. The policy was announced to inmates 1 month before going into effect so that they could recive counseling and participate in smoking cessation programs. To date, the policy has been in place with no incidence of violent behavior or unusual stress due to the policy. Although some inmates made mild complaints, others have commented on the policy's benefits. Not only is breathing easier, but the absence of smoke has contributed to an overall healthier environment and reduced cleaning costs. Similar policies have since been implemented in five other Utah jails and the State prison, and three other correctional facilities have designated specific locations where smoking is permissible.