Purpose

The purpose of this Drug-Free Awareness Plan is to promote a safe, healthy, and productive work environment for all employees at NCIRE. We recognize that substance abuse can have serious impacts on workplace safety, employee health, and overall organizational effectiveness. NCIRE’s implementation of this plan governs the rights and responsibilities of persons affected by the drug-free workplace requirements.

 

Scope

This policy applies to all employees, contractors, and visitors on NCIRE premises or engage in anyway with NCIRE-sponsored projects.

 

Plan Statement

NCIRE as a result of its research mission, and the sensitive nature of our work has a compelling obligation to eliminate illegal drug and alcohol abuse in the workplace. We maintain a zero-tolerance policy for the use, possession, or distribution of illegal drugs, and the misuse of alcohol and prescription medications during work hours or on the San Francisco Veterans Administration Health Care System (SFVAHCS) campus. The success of a drug-free workplace program depends on how well NCIRE informs its employees of the hazards of drug use, and on how much assistance it can provide drug users. Equally important is the assurance to employees that personal dignity and privacy will be respected in reaching NCIRE’s goal of a continued drug-free workplace.

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Prohibited Conduct

1. The use, possession, sale, or distribution of illegal drugs is strictly prohibited on the SFVAHCS campus or any NCIRE premises or during NCIRE-sponsored events.

2. Employees are prohibited from consuming alcohol during working hours and being under the influence of alcohol while on duty.

3. Employees must inform their supervisor if they are taking prescription medications that may impair their ability to perform their job safely.

 

Condition of Employment

As a condition of employment, each employee must notify NCIRE in writing if the employee is convicted for a violation of a criminal drug statute occurring in the workplace and must do so no more than five calendar days after the conviction.

 

Prevention and Education

NCIRE is dedicated to providing education and resources to employees about the dangers of drug and alcohol abuse. We will offer training sessions, informational materials, and access to employee assistance programs (EAP) to support prevention efforts. Support, Rehabilitation, and the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) NCIRE’s EAP plays an important role in preventing and resolving employee drug use by demonstrating NCIRE’s commitment to continuing to eliminate illegal drug use in the workplace; providing employees an opportunity, with appropriate assistance, to discontinue their drug use; providing educational materials to supervisors and employees on drug use issues; assisting supervisors in confronting employees who have performance and/or conduct problems; and providing resources to employees that need to seek treatment. Employees struggling with substance abuse issues are encouraged to seek help. NCIRE supports employees who voluntarily come forward for assistance and may offer rehabilitation options, including counseling services and support programs.

 

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is an agency within the Department of Health and Human Services that leads public health efforts to advance the behavioral health of the nation. SAMHSA’s National Helpline is a free, confidential, 24/7, 365-day-a-year treatment referral and information service (in English and Spanish) for individuals and families facing mental and/or substance use disorders.

 

1-800-662-HELP (4357)

 

Disciplinary Action

NCIRE pledges to take action concerning employees convicted of violating drug statutes in the workplace. Violations of this policy will result in disciplinary action, which may include suspension or termination of employment, depending on the severity of the offense.

 

Reporting Drug Use

At NCIRE, we encourage a culture of safety and responsibility, if you suspect or witness drug use or related activities in the workplace, it is crucial to report your concerns promptly. If you feel comfortable you can speak directly to your supervisor or a member of the Human Resources team about your concerns. You can also report anonymously through the NCIRE Confidential Hotline: 844-904-1770 or Secure Reporting via Ethics Point: https://secure.ethicspoint.com/domain/media/en/gui/75610/index.html

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Dangers of Drug Use

A drug can change the way the brain works. This effect will vary depending on the type of drug being taken, the person and the environment. Drug use may lead to addiction. Addiction is defined as a chronic, relapsing disorder characterized by compulsive drug seeking, continued use despite harmful consequences, and long-lasting changes in the brain. It is considered both a complex brain disorder and a mental illness. Addiction is the most severe form of a full spectrum of substance use disorders and is a medical illness caused by repeated misuse of a substance or substances.

 

Drug use refers to any scope of use of illegal drugs: heroin use, cocaine use, tobacco use. Drug misuse is used to distinguish improper or unhealthy use from the use of medication as prescribed or alcohol in moderation. These include the repeated use of drugs to produce pleasure, alleviate stress, and/or alter or avoid reality. It also includes using prescription drugs in ways other than prescribed or using someone else’s prescription. Addiction refers to substance use disorders at the severe end of the spectrum and is characterized by a person’s inability to control the impulse to use drugs even when there are negative consequences. These behavioral changes are also accompanied by changes in brain function, especially in the brain’s natural inhibition and reward centers. The initial decision to take drugs is generally voluntary. However, with continued use, a person’s ability to exert self-control can become seriously impaired. Brain imaging studies from people addicted to drugs show physical changes in areas of the brain that are critical for judgment, decision-making, learning.

 

Plan Renewal

This plan will be reviewed annually and revised as necessary to ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations and to reflect best practices in workplace drug prevention.

 

Conclusion

At NCIRE, we value the health and safety of our employees and are committed to fostering a drug-free workplace. Your cooperation in adhering to this policy is essential for the well-being of all.

 

For any questions or further information regarding this plan, please contact the Human Resources department.

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Available Resources:

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Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Concern EAP provides free, confidential counseling services for employees who may be experiencing problems related to drugs or alcohol. This program is designed for short-term, solution-focused care, which is perfect for addressing immediate needs. We encourage employees to utilize their medical plan, which can provide extensive support, including both inpatient and outpatient counseling services tailored to substance abuse.

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Online Member Services: employees.concernhealth.com

Access Phone Number: 800-344-4222

Online Access Code: ncire

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Medical Provider Support

Employees are encouraged to reach out to their medical providers for additional assistance, whether it’s for counseling, treatment options, or further resources.

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We believe that education and support are crucial in addressing substance use challenges. If you or someone you know is in need of assistance, please utilize these resources. Together, we can uphold a healthy and supportive workplace for all.

 

For additional questions or concerns please reach out to Lydia Blednyh at Lydia.blednyh@ncire.org or Elena Brown at Elena.brown@ncire.org.