DRUG FREE WORKPLACE ACT

The University is responsible for creating the best possible community for learning and working.  One aspect of this responsibility is the establishment of a clear alcohol and drug policy.

The State of Colorado has a vital interest in maintaining a safe, healthful and efficient working environment for its employees, clients and the public.  Employees impaired by alcohol or other drugs during work hours may pose safety and health risks, not only to themselves, but to others.

Therefore, to ensure a safe working environment, it is the policy of the State of Colorado that use of alcohol, other drugs or controlled substances that result in job impairment is prohibited.  Likewise, it is the policy of the State of Colorado that illegal possession, manufacture, use, sale or transfer of controlled substances on state property or during work hours by its employees is prohibited.

Violations of this policy will be just cause for management/supervisor intervention that may result in referral to mandatory treatment and/or in corrective or disciplinary actions up to and including termination.  The University also cooperates with local, state, and federal authorities in the detection and prosecution of drug offenses.

In addition to the policy described here, you should know that education, training, assessment and counseling for alcohol and other drug problems are available through the University Counseling Center, Main Hall, Room 324, x3265.  When necessary, UCCS can refer students off campus for substance abuse treatment programs

Alcohol
In a university, most of our approaches to problems are, and should be, positive and educational.  Because of this, it is expected that members of the campus community will comply voluntarily.  The community should be aware, however, that the University will take action when its policies on the use, possession, distribution, and sale of alcohol have been violated as detailed in these policies.  The University will also cooperate with local, state, and federal authorities in the detection and prosecution of alcohol related defense.

Alcohol policies apply to the Colorado Springs campus and University sponsored activities at off-campus locations.  Administrators, alumni, faculty, guests, staff, and students must adhere to all applicable state and local laws and University regulations related to the sale and use of alcoholic beverages.  The most common laws related to alcohol use and sales are as follows:

• The sale of alcoholic beverages is prohibited, except in areas, at times, and on dates licensed by the Colorado State Department of Revenue.
• Persons under 21 years of age cannot legally possess or consume any alcoholic beverage, which includes malt (6 percent beer), fermented malt liquor (3.2 percent beer), or vinous or spirituous liquor.  The furnishing of alcoholic beverages to underage persons is prohibited.
• No person under legal drinking age or any obviously intoxicated person shall be furnished, served, or given an alcohol beverage.
• Alcohol cannot be consumed or carried in open containers on any street, sidewalk, alley, automobile, or public area.
• The cost of admission to an event may not include alcoholic beverages.  Alcoholic beverages must be purchased separately.
• Alcohol is not permitted in the Summit Village Residence Halls.  In the Alpine Village Apartments, any student 21 years of age or older may consume alcohol in his or her room ONLY.

In a university, most of our approaches to problems are, and should be, positive and educational.  Because of this, it is expected that members of the campus community will comply voluntarily. The

2007 Campus Safety and Security Report

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