The Austin Community College District board of trustees voted Nov. 17 to ban the use of electronic cigarettes on all ACC properties.

The change expanded the college's smoke-free policy to prohibit nicotine vapor and smokeless tobacco products effective Jan. 5.

"We want to maintain a healthy and safe environment for our students and employees," said Mary Hensley, ACC executive vice president of college operations, in a statement. "Research indicates that smokeless tobacco products pose significant health hazards, [such as] causing cancer and other diseases."

ACC joins other colleges and universities including The University of Texas with the decision to ban electronic vaping devices. ACC's current smoke-free policy was adopted in October 2011 and prohibits the use of smoke-producing tobacco in district facilities, on college grounds and in ACC-owned vehicles.

The board's action also adds tobacco, nicotine vapor and related products to the existing policy prohibiting tobacco-related advertising and sponsorships at ACC events and in college publications.

Appropriate signage and informational materials will be placed at all ACC campuses and facilities in January. ACC's Human Resources Department also will offer smoking cessation workshops for faculty, staff and students.