Policy
It is the policy of Quincy College to maintain a learning environment and workplace that is free of illegal drugs and alcohol. Quincy College seeks to maintain an environment that is safe and secure and that promotes productivity for all students and employees. Since the inappropriate and/or illegal use of alcohol and other drugs on college property or at college activities may impair the health and safety of students and employees, inhibit the personal and academic growth of students, lower productivity and the quality of work performed by employees, and undermine the public’s confidence in the College, a strong policy prohibiting such use has been established.
An employee of the College (including student employees) shall not unlawfully use, possess, manufacture, distribute, dispense, or sell illegal drugs or controlled substances (as defined in the Controlled Substance Act, 21 U.S.C. Section 812) or alcohol while on duty or on Quincy College’s premises or while conducting company business off the premises. Such action is absolutely prohibited in accordance with the College policy, and state and federal law.
It is the policy of Quincy College to enforce all state and federal laws pertaining to controlled substances and to prosecute individuals who violate those laws on College property.
Procedures
Any employee who violates this policy will be subject to disciplinary action up to and including termination, and may have legal consequences. For unit employees, this disciplinary action will be in accordance with the relevant provisions of the applicable collective bargaining agreement. Disciplinary action may include suspension from employment, mandatory participation in an alcohol/drug abuse assistance or rehabilitation program as a condition of continuing employment, or termination of employment. Violations of criminal law will also be reported to the appropriate law enforcement agency.
Any employee who is convicted of a workplace violation of any criminal drug statute must notify the Vice President for Human Resources of that conviction in writing no later than five days after such conviction. If the employment of an employee so convicted is partially or fully federally funded, the College will notify the federal agency providing those funds of the conviction as required by law.
College Policies
Quincy College recognizes drug and alcohol dependency as an illness and a major health problem. Drug abuse is also a potential health, safety, and security problem. Employees (including student employees) needing assistance in dealing with such problems are encouraged to find the appropriate help. Employees who are enrolled in any of the health insurance plans offered through the Quincy College Group Insurance Plan should consult their plan booklets or service offices to determine which programs may be paid through their health insurance. The Human Resources Department can provide information regarding Employee Assistance Programs (EAP). This matter will be held in the strictest confidence. All members of the College community are urged to carefully and seriously reflect on their personal responsibility to remain drug and alcohol free, and to demonstrate care and concern for others who may be experiencing a substance abuse problem through timely intervention and referral.
Individuals with drug or alcohol addictions are entitled to reasonable accommodations that permit the individual to perform the essential functions of the individual’s job. Reasonable accommodations may include such things as permitting the individual to attend counseling, or providing the individual with leave in order to participate in rehabilitation services or to otherwise control his/her addiction. Should an employee require a reasonable accommodation, s/he should contact Human Resources.
Original: October 2004
Revised: August 2020