Drug-Free Workplace

The Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988 requires employers receiving federal grants and contracts to affirm their intention to maintain a drug free work place and to take certain steps to support their commitment. The following information is intended to explain further the University's policies and procedures that relate to the Act.

Drug abuse in the work place endangers the health and safety of the public and of University employees, students, and patients. Persons employed at The George Washington University are expected to maintain a work environment free of illicit drug manufacture, distribution dispensation, possession or use. Misuse of substances approved by the Food and Drug Administration will also not be condoned.

An employee convicted of illicit drug activity in the work place must report that conviction to his or her supervisor within 5 days of the conviction. The supervisor must then immediately report that conviction in writing to the Employee and Labor Relations Department , Division of Human Resources. If the convicted employee is working on a federal grant or contract, the Employee and Labor Relations Department will promptly report the conviction to the Office of Sponsored Research and other affected offices. The Office of Sponsored Research is required to report the incident to the federal government in accordance with applicable guidelines.

Disciplinary measures for workplace illicit drug related activities will conform to existing University policy, except that disciplinary measures for a reported conviction, if not already taken by the time a conviction is reported, must be taken within thirty (30) days of receiving notification of that conviction. For persons covered by collective bargaining agreements, terms of those agreements will govern any disciplinary measure imposed.

We expect and appreciate your support and cooperation in meeting regulatory and University responsibilities in providing a drug free work place.

Detailed Drug - Free Workplace Document