Knox College Employee Handbook: Employee Alcohol/Drug Policy
The federal government has enacted two phases of legislation aimed at preventing substance abuse. The first phase, called The Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988, requires Knox College to establish a policy on drug use by employees, including student employees, and to take additional steps toward maintaining a drug-free workplace. The second phase of legislation, called The Drug Free Schools and Communities Act Amendments of 1989, requires the College to implement a program aimed at preventing the use of illicit drugs and the abuse of alcohol. We have adopted policies and related programs, which comply with the legislation, as a prerequisite to receiving any federal funds, including grants, contracts, and participation in federally funded or guaranteed student loan programs.
Purpose and Goal
The College is committed to protecting the safety, health and wellbeing of all members of the College community. We recognize that alcohol abuse and drug use pose a significant threat to our goals. We have established a drug-free workplace program that balances our respect for individuals with the need to maintain an alcohol and drug-free environment. We encourage employees to voluntarily seek help with drug and alcohol problems. If you or someone you love needs help with a substance abuse problem, you can contact the Employee Assistance Program: Precedence Inc., (800) 383-7900
Prohibited Conduct - Drugs
No employee may use, possess, manufacture, distribute, sell, purchase, or be under the influence of illegal drugs during working hours, while on College premises, while conducting any business for the College, in any College vehicle, while traveling in connection with College business, or at any other time or place that may affect their employment with the College or College’s business or operations.
Illegal drugs are those drugs or controlled substances the possession of which is unlawful under federal, state, or local law, and includes prescription drugs obtained without a lawful prescription or that are used in a manner inconsistent with prescription directions. The legal use of prescribed drugs is permitted on the job so long as it does not impair an employee's ability to safely and effectively perform the essential functions of the job.
Alcohol
Employees are free to drink alcohol, if they choose, on their personal time, so long as this does not affect their work for the College. However, employees should be aware of the potential negative health effects of alcohol consumption. Consult the EAP for further information. Employees are prohibited from reporting to work or working with alcohol in their system such that their performance or conduct is impaired. Alcohol use off-the-job that impairs performance or conduct on-the-job is prohibited.
The College may sponsor or employees may attend gatherings or events at which alcoholic beverages are available, such as holiday parties or customer receptions. Responsible, moderate consumption of alcohol at a College-sanctioned gathering or event where alcoholic beverages are offered will not be regarded as a violation of this policy. However, the consumption of alcohol is never required and employees may always elect non-alcoholic beverage options. Employees who consume alcohol at business-related or College-sponsored gathering or event must behave professionally and appropriately at all times, and must obey all applicable laws and ordinances. Being under the influence of alcohol will not constitute an excuse for any inappropriate conduct, poor work performance or violations of College policies or the law. Employees who have consumed alcohol at such a gathering or event may not perform any work for the College or operate any College-owned or leased vehicle or equipment while under the influence of alcohol.
Knox College strictly prohibits serving alcohol to individuals under 21 years of age. Employees who are under the age of 21 are strictly prohibited from possessing or consuming alcohol on campus or at any College-sponsored event, regardless of location. Any College employee who provides or serves alcohol to a person who is under 21 years of age will be subject to discipline, up to and including termination of employment.
Notification of Convictions
Any employee who is convicted of a criminal drug violation in the workplace must notify the College in writing within five calendar days of the conviction. The College will take appropriate action within 30 days of notification.
