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2,010: University Drug and Alcohol Policy

Last Revised: January 2009

The University of Nevada, Reno is committed to maintaining a university environment free of the abuse of alcohol or other drugs.

The University complies with the Omnibus Anti-Drug Abuse Act of 1988 (the "Drug Free Workplace" Act) and the Drug Free Schools and Communities Act of 1989. Specifics include:

• The unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensation, possession, or involvement with alcohol and illegal drugs by faculty, staff, or students in the workplace, on university property, or as part of any university activity is prohibited. Per NAC 284.844, an employee must not have a concentration of alcohol that is greater than .01 gram per 100 milliliters of his blood or 210 liters of his breath while on duty.
• A violation of any of the above prohibitions may result in disciplinary action, which may include expulsion or termination as prescribed by NRS 284 and 453 and Titles 2 and 4 of the Nevada System of Higher Education Code.
• Federal law requires that an employee notify the employer of any criminal drug statute conviction or violation occurring in the workplace no later than five days after such conviction. The notification should be directed, in writing to the Office of Human Resources, who will then work with the appropriate university department(s) to ensure that any granting or contracting agencies are notified within 10 days.
• An employee convicted as described in the preceding statement will be required, unless employment is terminated, to participate in the Employee Assistance Program or some other appropriate alcohol/drug abuse assistance or rehabilitation program.

The Employee Assistance Program (EAP) provides help to university employees and their families with an alcohol and/or drug problem. This help is available 24 hours per day by calling (877) 234-5151 or you may contact a representative online at Life Works (user ID is NSHE and the password is EAP).

This assistance is provided by off-campus agencies and is completely confidential. Administrative leave may be granted for an initial visit to the agency. The staff at EAP are trained to evaluate and refer individuals to the appropriate educational and support groups, or more structured and organized chemical dependency programs.

All of the health insurance plans include coverage for treatment programs. Coverage differs, so employees should contact their health provider to find out what plan specific benefits are offered.

Faculty and staff can refer students to receive help through the University Substance Abuse Program in the Thompson Student Services Building, Room 202, 784-4648. Programs are available for training university personnel in recognition of alcohol and drug abuse behaviors and in referral and intervention strategies.

Operational guidelines for serving alcohol at university-sponsored functions are available by contacting the Student Life Services Office at 784-1471.