Policy Author:
Employee Engagement
Responsible Office – Department:
Employee Engagement
Effective Date of Policy:
May 25, 2021
Daemen University is committed to protecting the safety, health and well-being of all its employees and campus community. Daemen strives to maintain a workplace free from the influences of illegal drugs and substance abuse pursuant to the Drug Free Workplace Act (41.U.S.C. 701) and the Drug Free Schools and Communities Act (20 U.S.C. 1145g.).
Therefore,it is the policy of Daemen University that the unlawful manufacture, distribution, possession, sale or use of controlled substances by an employee of the University is strictly prohibited and that anyone found in violation of this policy will be subject to disciplinary action up to and including termination.
As such, the University provides the following directives:
Communication:
To ensure all employees are aware of their role in supporting our drug-free workplace program:
· All new hires will receive a copy of the Drug Free Workplace Policy and sign an acknowledgement and agreement to comply with the University’s Drug Free Workplace Policy. A signed copy will be maintained in the employee’s personnel file;
· All employees are required to complete Drug Free Workplace Training upon hire and periodically thereafter;
· Supervisors will receive training to help them recognize and manage employees with alcohol and other drug problems.
Shared Responsibility:
A safe and productive drug-free workplace is achieved through cooperation and shared responsibility. Employees must not report to work or be subject to duty while their ability to perform job duties is impaired due to on- or off-duty use of alcohol or other drugs.
Employee Assistance Program (EAP):
Daemen University recognizes that alcohol and drug abuse and addiction are treatable illnesses. Employees who are struggling with alcohol or drugs are encouraged to seek assistance. The University’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is available free of charge to employees and their families on a confidential basis, 24 hours a day 7 days a week. Employees who have a concern about drug or alcohol abuse are strongly encouraged to contact the EAP for assistance in finding resources to help with the problem.
Disciplinary Action
Individuals whose work performance is impaired as a result of use or abuse of drugs or alcohol (either on or off campus); who illegally use or abuse drugs or alcohol on campus or on University business; who violate any provision of the University’s employment rules or who have been convicted of violating criminal drug statute while on University property or while participating in a university sponsored program off campus are subject to disciplinary action. This may include termination of employment and referral to law enforcement authorities.
Disciplinary action will be determined and implemented by the cognizant Vice President in consultation with the Employee Engagement Director. Any such actions will be in compliance with the Faculty Handbook and other University policies and regulations regarding termination of employees.
Notification of Conviction:
Any employee convicted of a controlled substance related violation in the workplace, including pleas of no contest, must inform the Director of Employee Engagement within five (5) days of this conviction or plea. Moreover, any employee who is so convicted may be subject to disciplinary action up to and including termination.
Please see the University Vehicles Policy for additional information regarding this policy as it pertains to operating University vehicles.