My Iona

Drug and Alcohol Policy

Section: Safety, Health & Environmental Services
Responsible Office(s): Human Resources and Campus Safety
Effective Date: 09/01/96

Scope

This policy applies to all active and retired employees of Iona University .

Policy

In compliance with the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Amendments of 1989 and as a demonstration of the University’s longstanding commitment to providing a safe, quality-oriented and productive work environment, this policy has been established to reduce and prevent drug-and-alcohol related problems within the University community. Drug and alcohol abuse poses a threat to the health and safety of employees and to the security of the University’s equipment and facilities. It is important that all members of the University community comply with applicable laws related to drugs and alcohol and understand the risks and consequences of substance abuse.

Standards of Conduct

Iona University prohibits the unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol by employees and students on College premises, property or as part of its activities.

The University expects all employees to report to work fit for duty and free of any adverse effects of illegal drugs or alcohol. This policy does not prohibit employees from the lawful use and possession of prescribed medications. Employees must, however, consult with their doctors about the medications’ effect on their fitness for duty and ability to work safely, and they must promptly disclose any work restrictions to their supervisor.

Whenever employees are working, operating any College vehicle, present on campus, or are conducting College-related work offsite, they are prohibited from:

  • Using, possessing, buying, selling, manufacturing or dispensing an illegal drug (to include possession of drug paraphernalia).
  • Being under the influence of alcohol or an illegal drug as defined in this policy.
  • Possessing or consuming alcohol.

Iona University will also not allow employees to perform their duties while taking prescribed drugs that adversely affect their ability to safely and effectively perform their job duties. Employees taking a prescribed medication must carry it in a container labeled by a licensed pharmacist or be prepared to produce the container if asked. Detectable amounts of any illegal drug or illegal controlled substance while performing College business or while on campus, is prohibited. Any illegal drugs or drug paraphernalia will be turned over to an appropriate law enforcement agency and may result in criminal prosecution.

While alcohol is served at certain College functions, employees must demonstrate good judgment if consuming alcohol during these events. It is important to note that if an employee is required to return to work after an event where alcohol is served, they must not consume alcohol at said event as this would be in violation of College policy.

Disciplinary Sanctions

Iona University has established clear and specific sanctions for violations of its standards of conduct. These sanctions, range from warnings and mandatory referral to substance abuse awareness programs for minor offenses, to dismissal and/or referral to civil authorities for major and/or multiple offenses, are applied consistently and fairly.

Employee Assistance

Iona University will assist and support employees who voluntarily seek help for drug or alcohol problems before becoming subject to discipline or termination under this or other College policies. The Employee Assistance Program provides professional counseling and referral as well as consultation and information to Iona University employees and their families through their health coverage provided through the University. For issues of drug and alcohol abuse, short-term counseling is available through this program. If necessary, referrals can be made to private counselors or community agencies. All services of the Employee Assistance Program are confidential.

More about the Employee Assistance Program

For more information, contact Human Resources at (914) 633-2049 or hr@iona.edu.