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QUESTION: Our agency is considering implementing a zero tolerance drug and alcohol policy throughout all programs and departments. Currently, we only have one department with a zero tolerance policy in place. We would like to know if any other agencies have a zero tolerance drug and alcohol policy, and if so, would they be willing to provide a sample? Our agency does not enforce a zero tolerance policy unless the employee is caught buying or selling illegal substances and found guilty. Our policy gives employees the opportunity to enter a drug rehabilitation program at their expense. We reserve the right to test someone several times during a six month period following completion of the program. This policy has worked well over the pat fifteen years and has our Board of Directors’ approval. *** Our agency has a zero tolerance policy forbidding manufacturing, distributing, dispensing, possessing or using controlled substances while on active duty. We conduct pre-employment drug testing on required programs, random drug testing on required programs and all employees are subject to reasonable suspicion drug testing. When an employee is sent for testing for reasonable suspicion, they are suspended pending the results. If the test results come back positive, the employee is terminated based on their last day worked. If the test results come back negative, then we allow them to return to work and be paid for missed time. *** Please see the attached sample Drug and Alcohol Free Policy. This information is a compilation of suggestions, ideas, and opinions shared by INARF Members in response to the featured question. This information should not be considered official interpretation or guidance of State or Federal Policy. Additionally, statements within this document do not necessarily reflect an official position or opinion of INARF.
Our agency does not enforce a zero tolerance policy unless the employee is caught buying or selling illegal substances and found guilty. Our policy gives employees the opportunity to enter a drug rehabilitation program at their expense. We reserve the right to test someone several times during a six month period following completion of the program. This policy has worked well over the pat fifteen years and has our Board of Directors’ approval.
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Our agency has a zero tolerance policy forbidding manufacturing, distributing, dispensing, possessing or using controlled substances while on active duty. We conduct pre-employment drug testing on required programs, random drug testing on required programs and all employees are subject to reasonable suspicion drug testing. When an employee is sent for testing for reasonable suspicion, they are suspended pending the results. If the test results come back positive, the employee is terminated based on their last day worked. If the test results come back negative, then we allow them to return to work and be paid for missed time.
Please see the attached sample Drug and Alcohol Free Policy.