Alcohol & Controlled Substances in the Workplace

Alcohol & Controlled Substances in the Workplace

Human Resources

Director of Human Resources

April 30, 2003

President's Cabinet (Policy Number 012)

April 30, 2003

REASON FOR POLICY

The use of alcohol or controlled substances has a deleterious effect on our workforce. Employees, who, while on duty in an impaired status due to the use of alcohol or controlled substances, disrupt the efficient and effective delivery of educational and related services to students, coworkers, parents and visitors. Additionally, employees under the disabling effects of alcohol or controlled substances present a threat to all members of the campus community. Finally, to ensure compliance with the federal Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988 and the New York Policy on Alcohol and Controlled Substances in the workplace this policy is authored. For all the above reasons, this policy is implemented.

POLICY STATEMENT

In compliance with the federal Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988 and the New York State Policy on Alcohol and Controlled Substances in the Workplace, Fredonia employees are subject to criminal, civil, and disciplinary penalties for any violation of the policy below:

• The unlawful use, possession, manufacture, dispensation, or distribution of a controlled substance (as defined in Schedules I through V of Section 202 of the Controlled Substance Act - 21USC812) in all Fredonia work locations is prohibited.

• Employees must notify the Human Resources Office of any criminal conviction for a drug-statute violation occurring in the workplace or at a work site no later than five (5) working days after such conviction. An employee so convicted shall be required to satisfactorily participate in a state-approved drug abuse assistance or rehabilitation program as a condition of continuing employment.

• Employees are prohibited from alcohol-related impairment on the job or in any Fredonia facilities.

Such illegal acts, even if engaged in while off duty, may result in disciplinary action. In those locations where it is permitted, an employee may possess and use a controlled substance that is legally prescribed for the employee by a physician. If a supervisor has a reasonable suspicion that an employee is unable to perform job duties because of an impairment that may be caused by use of a controlled substance or alcohol, the employee may be required to undergo medical testing. If the cause of the impairment is found to be drug or alcohol related, the Director of Human Resources, in conjunction with the employee's supervisor, may refer the employee to voluntary and confidential participation in the Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Other available options include pursuing leave procedures or disciplinary measures.