Employee Handbook 2018

33. DRUG-FREE WORKPLACE POLICY

Merritt acknowledges the problem of substance abuse (including alcohol) in our community. Furthermore, we see substance abuse as a serious threat to the health and safety of our employees and to the integrity of our business. This policy is enacted in response. The use, possession, or sale of illegal drugs, the consumption of alcohol, and the abuse of other legal substances while on Merritt premises or during the conduct of Merritt business is prohibited. This Policy shall not apply to certain business-related functions, such as holiday parties and other social events, concerning the use of alcohol, provided that such alcohol is consumed in a responsible manner. In no event, may an employee consume alcohol at any Merritt function in an amount to render him or her impaired or not in full control of his or her facilities. In addition, the off-duty use, possession, distribution, or sale of illegal drugs and reporting to work with detectable amounts of alcohol in one’s system are also prohibited. Employees who violate this policy will be subject to appropriate disciplinary measures, up to and including termination. Illegal drugs include (but are not limited to) marijuana, cocaine, opiates, PCP, and amphetamines. In addition, for purposes of this policy, prescription and over-the- counter drugs used without authorized prescription or contrary to medical advice will also be considered illegal drugs. Employees who are taking over-the-counter or prescription medication in accordance with prescription/direction do not violate this policy so long as they do not report to work in an impaired condition. Merritt encourages employees who abuse alcohol or abuse illegal drugs to seek rehabilitation and or treatment before their problem exposes them to disciplinary measures or potential termination. Seeking such assistance does not abrogate compliance with Merritt’s policies or job performance expectations.

18