Drug and Alcohol-Free

Updated November 2018

In compliance with the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988 and the Drug Free Schools and Communities Amendments of 1989, Cambridge College affirms that it has adopted and implemented a program to prevent the unlawful possession, use or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol by employees, students or faculty.  This policy is applicable to all employees, students and faculty members of Cambridge College.

Cambridge College, consistent with the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, prohibits the consumption, possession and sale, and the provision or serving of alcoholic beverages by and to persons less than 21 years of age.

All college employees and faculty are prohibited from consuming alcohol or being under the influence of alcohol during work hours or in the workplace (except that it will not be a violation of this policy for an employee to engage in the responsible consumption of alcohol at approved social functions held during work hours or in the workplace, provided that the use of alcohol has been permitted in these circumstances).  Under no circumstances may a Cambridge College employee consume or be under the influence of alcohol while operating Cambridge College vehicles or equipment. The consumption of alcohol will not constitute a mitigating circumstance when it contributes to the violation of College policies.

Vice Presidents have the authority and responsibility to govern the use of alcohol in areas they control, and to require measures to ensure that at events where alcohol will be served only individuals of legal age will have access. Those hosting such events must take reasonable steps to ensure that the acquisition, distribution and consumption of alcohol otherwise complies with applicable law and College policy.

The use of legal drugs, including prescribed drugs, is permitted on the job only if it does not impair an employee’s ability to perform the essential functions of the job effectively and in a safe manner that does not endanger other individuals in the workplace.  The misuse of prescription drugs, including drugs not prescribed to the employee is prohibited while working. These prohibitions cover arriving on College premises while impaired by the effects of such drugs, including those obtained by prescription under medical direction. 

If an employee has been advised by a physician, a pharmacist, or other authorized medical personnel that the use of a legal drug may present a safety risk or inappropriate behavioral side effects, then the employee is required to submit a physician's statement to the Vice President of Human Resources that the prescription drug use will not affect job safety.

All Cambridge College employees, students and faculty and are expected to abide by all federal, state and local laws, including those regulating the use, possession, sale distribution, manufacture and cultivation of illicit drugs and alcohol.

Cambridge College has a zero tolerance for the abuse of this policy.  Members of the College community charged with violations of this policy are subject to disciplinary action through the established disciplinary procedures of the College and its collective bargaining agreements. Employees, students and faculty may face disciplinary action up to and including immediate separation from the College, in addition to criminal prosecution under applicable laws.  The College may also require satisfactory completion of an appropriate substance abuse rehabilitation or treatment program, counseling or education program as a condition of reinstatement or continued employment.

In accordance with Federal law, an employee who is convicted of a criminal drug statute for a violation occurring in the workplace must, within five (5) days after the conviction, must notify the Human Resources Office of such conviction.  Cambridge College is required to notify the relevant funding agency, within ten (10) days of receiving such notice, of any applicable conviction involving an employee engaged in work on a federal grant or contract, whether partially or fully federally funded.   

Persons who are not employees of Cambridge College, but who perform work for its benefit (such as independent contractor, temporary employees provided by agencies, visitors engaged in joint projects, etc.) are required to comply with this policy.  Violation by such persons is likely to result in their being barred from the workplace, even for a first offense.

As a member of the Cambridge College community, it is your responsibility to know and abide by all campus rules and regulations, to understand the risks associated with the use and abuse of alcohol and illegal drugs and to assist in creating an environment that promotes health enhancing attitudes and activities.

All employees, students and faculty members will receive annual reminders of the College’s drug and alcohol policy and related program.