Expert: Gary - 9/3/2005

Question
I work in a small preschool with a nursery for the children of staff members.  My asssitant is having a baby and will be using this nursery.  The woman who is the nursery caregiver smokes.  She doesn't smoke at school of course, but she reeks of smoke every day. My question: Is there any danger for an infant breathing this smokey odor?  Are any chemicals left on clothing?  I've tried to search references on this but have found none since it is technically not "smoke". Thanks for any halp you can give.

Answer
Hi Kelly
Thanks for the question. We know that the components of tobacco smoke are the harmful things and we know that tobacco smoke contains various substances that can trigger unpleasant asthma symptoms. I do recall reading somewhere, although I can't remember where, that these substances are released from the clothing of a smoker who has recently smoked too. I suggest it is perfectly reasonable to discuss your concerns with this individual for the reasons above but also simply for reasons of professionalism. I, for one, would not want my children being in a nursery where the staff smell of cigarettes.
Hope this is useful
Gary