Substance Abuse Policy

Type: Policy / Best Practice
24-Mar-2023
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Karina Hovden Stava

Safe and responsible operations, as well as accountability for our actions, are values that Omega 365 takes seriously. At every business location, we aim to ensure a safe, healthy, and productive work environment for our employees. Substance use and abuse in the workplace run counter to these values.

Substance use and abuse increases the potential for accidents, absenteeism, substandard performance, poor employee morale and health, and has the potential to damage our company’s reputation; for these reasons, Omega acts to eliminate substance use and abuse in the workplace. 

We have therefore adopted the following Substance Abuse Policy, which covers all employees.

As a condition of employment in any of the companies in the Omega 365 Group, employees must comply with this policy.

Substance defined

For the purpose of this policy, the term “substance” includes alcohol, controlled substances, illegal drugs, prescription and over-the-counter medications, and any other substance that may be inhaled, injected, ingested, or introduced into the body in any other way, which may alter an individual’s mood, perception, coordination, responses, performance, or judgement.

Prescription and over-the-counter medications

Many medications available via prescription, or for purchase over the counter, have side effects that may alter an employee’s ability to do his or her job safely and effectively. It is the employee’s responsibility to obtain the information required to determine whether the use of such medication could negatively affect their productivity or ability to perform their job safely. Accordingly, the employee should discuss their work responsibilities with their personal physician to determine whether the use of any prescription and/or over-the-counter medication could adversely affect their ability to perform their job safely.

Seeking voluntary assistance

There are instances when employees may voluntarily seek assistance for substance use and abuse problems. In these instances, we will assist the affected employees, without subjecting them to disciplinary actions. Any employee who has completed a rehabilitation program must be drug free before returning to work.

Detectable trace amounts

It is a violation of this policy for employees to report for duty or remain on duty:

  • With any detectable trace amount of any illegal drug, alcohol, or controlled substance (except as prescribed by a licensed medical practitioner for current use) in their systems; or,
  • While under the influence of any substance that could in any way adversely affect their health or safety, the health or safety of others, or their ability to represent the company in an appropriate manner.
Prohibited activities

Possession or use of alcoholic beverages, controlled substances, illegal drugs, and drug paraphernalia is prohibited at client locations, company sites, or on their property.

Certain activities at client locations, company sites, or on their properties are considered serious misconduct; these activities will result in immediate termination and notification where appropriate (based on the relevant laws and government regulations). These activities include the illegal production, distribution, possession or use of illegal substances.

Omega and Client Sanctioned Social Events

Some believe that a corporate gathering such as an Omega or Client sanctioned party or social event is merely an opportunity to have fun and relax, and no different than a gathering with friends and family. However, an Omega sanctioned party or social event is essentially a casual business event. Being impaired is inexcusable and dangerous for your physical well-being and the well-being of others — particularly when driving.
 
Impairment can also result in embarrassing and inappropriate situations with event attendees. Consider up front that your behaviour will likely be observed by everyone — your colleagues, Clients, Responsible Superior — and their spouses.
 
Take responsibility for your own consumption of Legal Substances and moderate your intake. Avoid the potential for unsafe outcomes and a depreciation of your reputation that can stem from Intoxication and inappropriate behaviour at Omega or Client sanctioned events.

Off-the-job substance abuse

Off-the-job involvement in substance abuse activities, which could affect your job performance or your ability to represent the company in an appropriate manner, may result in disciplinary action up to and including termination.

Notification of charges

Employees are required to notify Omega 365 if they are charged with a violation of a criminal drug statute whilst in the workplace. This notification should be directed to the employee’s Department Manager no later than five (5) working days after the employee is charged.

Contractors, subcontractors, their employees, agents, and visitors

Contractors, subcontractors, their employees, agents, and visitors should be advised of this policy. Omega 365 reserves the right to require contractors to search and/or screen their employees before entering company premises, while engaging in company business, or while operating company equipment.

Summary

This policy applies to all employees, except as prohibited by applicable federal, state, or local law. The company reserves the right to interpret, modify or revise this policy, in whole or in part, without notice, except as required by applicable federal, state, or local law. Nothing in this policy is to be construed as an employment contract, nor does this alter an employee’s employment at-will status.

Contact
AKAN contact for the Omega 365 Group:
Kjersti Reiersen
kjersti@omega365.com