Drug Free Workplace

Policy

The unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensing, possession, or use of a controlled substance is prohibited in and on College owned or controlled property. The use of alcohol while on College owned or controlled property is also prohibited, except when authorized in writing by the College President or his/her designee. No employee will report to work while under the influence of alcohol or any unlawful controlled substance. Violation of this policy by any employee may result in referral for mandatory evaluation/treatment for a substance abuse disorder or disciplinary action up to and including dismissal in accordance with the State rules and regulations set forth for higher education ,, bargaining unit agreements, tenure laws, or other College policies. In addition, Washington State statutes and federal laws make the possession or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol a crime subject to imprisonment, fine, or both.

In order to comply with federal law, the College requires that an employee notify the employing official of any criminal drug statute conviction for any violation occurring in the workplace no later than five days after such conviction. If the employee is engaged in the performance of a federally sponsored grant or contract, the College must notify the federal contracting agency within ten days of having received notice that the employee has been convicted of a drug statute violation occurring in the workplace. The College will take disciplinary action against, or require the satisfactory participation in a drug/alcohol abuse assistance or rehabilitation program, by any College employee who is so convicted. Disciplinary action may include dismissal from employment or other appropriate disciplinary actions. Employment at the College is conditional on each employee's willingness to abide by this policy.

Program

The many health risks associated with the use of illicit drugs and the abuse of alcohol may adversely affect work as well as personal life. These risks include liver damage, heart disease, ulcers, malnutrition, brain damage, cancer, and damage to a developing fetus. The College will provide substance abuse education, resources, information, and referral focusing on the prevention and treatment of substance abuse.

The substance abuse program will be available to all college employees. The College will distribute information to employees about the drug and alcohol abuse prevention program annually.

The College will conduct a biennial review to determine the effectiveness of the drug and alcohol abuse prevention program, implement changes as needed, and ensure that appropriate sanctions are consistently enforced.

Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to ensure a drug free, healthful, safe and secure environment and to comply with state and federal laws concerning controlled substances.

To Whom Does This Policy Apply

This policy applies to all employees and volunteers of the College.

References

CFR Part 85, Subpart F (Drug Free Workplace Act of 1988)

Public Law 99-70, Title IV. Subtitle B (Drug Free Schools and Communities Act of 1986

Public Law 101-226 (Amendment of the Drug Free Schools and Communities Act of 1986)

Definitions

See College Policy – Definitions

Procedure

Each employee and College volunteer will complete a signed acknowledgement form that indicates receipt of a copy of the Tacoma Community College Drug Free Workplace policy and acknowledgement that the employee/volunteer agrees to read and abide by the policy terms and conditions.  The acknowledgement will be placed in the employees personnel file. The acknowledgement for volunteers will remain with their respective College volunteer agreement.