To maintain a safe, comfortable and hazard-free environment, and per state regulations, smoking in Joining Hands Visitation offices and facilities is strictly prohibited. JHV recognizes the health hazard that smoking represents and therefore operates smoke-free facilities permitting smoking in designated areas outside the building. Staff should become familiar with the areas outside the premises where smoking is permitted. Under no circumstances is it permissible that minors be allowed to smoke. Staff discovered smoking in any nonsmoking area or in the presence of minors, will be subject to disciplinary action.

At no time is a staff member permitted to smoke in front of a child or children participating in a visit. Due to the health sensitivities faced by some children placed in our care it is requested that any staff member who smokes refrain from doing so the day of their visit or in their vehicle to avoid causing an adverse reaction for the children in our care. Please do not try to mask smoke with colognes or perfumes as these too may cause adverse reactions for the children in our care. Some children’s histories are unknown to DCFY or are not immediately disclosed so please do not assume everything is known about a child’s health history. Smoke clings to surfaces, clothes, and the body among other things and is very important to understand the impact it can have on the children in our care.

Is smoking permitted around children?
(1) You must not allow your staff to smoke in your agency, in the living spaces of the homes you certify, or while transporting children.
(2) You may permit adults to smoke outdoors away from children in accordance with RCW 70.160.075.
(3) You must not provide tobacco to children.
(4) These rules do not apply to traditional or spiritual Native American or religious ceremonies involving the use of tobacco. (WAC 388-147-1570)