HUMAN RESOURCES AND LABOR RELATIONS
Section 412 Substance Abuse

Effective: 1/23/89
Last Revised:
Responsible Office: Human Resources

APPLIES TO: All personnel.

Policy Statement:

The University of Maine System Board of Trustees recognizes that substance abuse is a complex problem which is not easily resolvable solely by personal effort and may require professional assistance and/or treatment. Accordingly each university and System-wide Services shall designate an individual to assist employees who seek referral for assistance with a substance abuse problem. The universities shall take necessary steps to insure the confidentiality of all inquiries and referrals. All employees shall be informed periodically of the availability of help for substance abuse problems. Each university shall also make available to employees informational materials regarding substance abuse.

Faculty and staff members with substance abuse problems are encouraged to take advantage of available diagnostic, referral, counseling, and prevention services. However, employees availing themselves of these services will not be granted special privileges and/or exemptions from standard personnel practices applicable to job performance requirements. The University will not excuse acts of misconduct committed by employees whose judgment is impaired due to substance abuse.

The possession, use, manufacture or distribution of illegal drugs as defined by federal, state, and local statutes is prohibited at any time on University property. Employees known to possess, use, manufacture or distribute illegal drugs are liable to public law enforcement sanctions and University disciplinary action. Use of alcoholic beverages on University property shall be in compliance with state laws and university regulations and procedures. Violation of such laws, regulations and procedures may result in disciplinary action and, where applicable, criminal proceedings.

Procedures:

The University maintains a program for conducting alcohol and drug testing of employees in safety-sensitive positions in accordance with the 1991 Omnibus Transportation Employee Testing Act.

Related Documents:

Policy 505 Student Substance Abuse
Drug Free Schools Act
University of Maine System Drug and Alcohol Testing Policy