Protection and Control

Secondhand smoke refers to the smoke released from burning tobacco products—such as cigarettes, cigars, hookahs, or pipes—as well as the smoke exhaled by people who use these products. Exposure to secondhand smoke occurs when non-smokers breathe in this contaminated air, putting them at risk for many of the same health problems as smokers.

Thirdhand smoke, on the other hand, consists of the residual nicotine and other toxic chemicals that linger on surfaces and in dust after tobacco has been smoked. This residue can cling to furniture, walls, carpets, and clothing, posing health risks long after the visible smoke has cleared.

Both secondhand and thirdhand smoke disproportionately affect certain populations due to social drivers of health (SDOH)—the nonmedical factors that influence health outcomes. These include the conditions in which people are born, grow, live, work, and age, as well as broader systemic forces such as economic policies, social norms, and public infrastructure. Together, these elements shape who is most vulnerable to the harmful effects of tobacco exposure.

As we work to protect Oklahomans from the effects of secondhand and thirdhand smoke, we are aware that many individuals, where they live, work, or play may not be smoke-free. Smoke-free policies aid in the adoption of clean indoor air spaces for everyone. Sample policies are available from the Oklahoma State Department of Health. Variations include policy templates for businesses, schools, multi-unit housing complexes, and community organizations.

There is no safe level of exposure to secondhand or thirdhand tobacco smoke; the same is true for e-cigarette device emissions, there is no safe level of exposure. The adoption of smoke-free policies is critical in changing the societal norms around smoking. Wherever possible, we strive to educate Oklahomans on the benefits of a smoke-free environment. Every Oklahoman deserves a tobacco, smoke, and vape-free place to live, work, and play.

Comprehensive clean indoor air protection would provide safe environments for all Oklahomans.

State statute exempts casinos, bingo halls, stand-alone bars, hotels, and at-home daycares—from the clean indoor air legislation that prohibits smoking in public places—with the important caveat that at-home daycares are only exempt when children are not present.

87% of Oklahomans report having a smoke-free home. Through education and health promotion activities, we hope to increase this percentage as more Oklahomans discover the benefits of clean indoor air. Surveys indicate that the majority of renters prefer units with smoke-free policies. This is encouraging as it demonstrates the demand for clean air in apartment complexes. Not only do smoke-free policies increase the attractiveness of rental units, they also eliminate additional cost in cleaning and turning over rental units. Recent estimates show that turning over a non-smoking unit can save approximately $3,500 over a smoking unit. This makes great sense for a landlord’s bottom line.

• Breathe Easy Landlord Manual
• Tobacco Free Multi Unit Housing (completely tobacco free property)
• Tobacco Free Multi Unit Housing (with 25 foot buffer zone from entrances allowed)

Worksites that implement smokefree policies may see incredible savings in terms of sick days, lost productivity and, insurance costs. Depending on the size of the business, those savings may be substantial. In addition to helping with smokefree worksite policy templates, OSDH is also available to help business owners connect their staff with cessation resources to increase the health and wellness of their employees. 

• Worksites Tobacco, Smoke and Vape-Free Policy

In addition to sample smoke-free worksite and housing policies, we are also here to help you plan the implementation of your new policies. Our Breathe Easy program can help you promote your new smoke-free policies with self-adhesive clings for your entrances and metal signage for the outdoor spaces on your property.  This signage is offered at no cost to Oklahoma businesses, community organizations and multi-unit housing complexes. Letting customers, staff, and residents know they can expect clean air at your location is a great way to communicate that you value their health and wellness. 

For more information about indoor air pollutants, please visit Clean Air Indoors | American Lung Association.