Safety Policies

Drugs & Alcohol

It is the policy of NWHSU to maintain a workplace and campus that is free from the health and safety-related consequences of drug and alcohol use and abuse.  The workplace and campus include all University premises where the activities of the University are conducted. Employees are required to report to work in appropriate mental and physical condition to perform their jobs.

While on University premises and/or conducting business-related activities at any location, employees may not use, possess, distribute, manufacture, sell or be under the influence of alcohol, controlled substances or illegal drugs. Storing any unauthorized controlled substances, drug paraphernalia or alcohol in a locker, desk, university-owned vehicle or other place on University owned or occupied premises is prohibited. At certain sanctioned University functions, alcoholic beverages may be accepted, but will be monitored.

The legal use of prescribed drugs is permitted on the job only if it does not impair an employee’s ability to perform the essential functions of the job effectively and in a safe manner that does not endanger other individuals in the workplace. Employees must notify their supervisor or Human Resources of the use of prescribed drugs or other substances that may affect their ability to perform their job.

Employees must also notify their supervisor or Human Resources if they observe any violation of this policy.

Those who violate this policy will be subject to corrective action up to and including dismissal.  In addition, they may be referred for criminal prosecution. Employees engaged in any federal grant or contract funded work must: (I) abide by the terms of this policy; and (II) notify the Human Resources Department of any criminal drug or alcohol conviction for a violation occurring on or off University premises while conducting University business. This notification must be made in writing no later than five (5) days after such conviction.