Drug-Free Workplace

Policy Statement

Bryant University prohibits the unlawful possession, use or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol by students and employees on its property or as part of any of its activities. Where there is evidence of violation of the law, law enforcement officials will be contacted immediately.

Any employee or student found to be in violation of this policy will be subject to applicable legal sanctions under local, state and federal law for the unlawful possession or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol as well as disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment or separation from the University.

Substance abuse is a problem that poses a serious threat to employees and students. The use of alcohol and illegal drugs endangers the health and safety of the abusers and all others around them. Bryant University is committed to making a good-faith effort in maintaining a drug-free workplace.

As a condition of employment, an employee or student must:

• Abide by the terms of this statement.
• Notify the Human Resources Department (or the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs) of any criminal drug statute conviction for any violation occurring on University property no later than five days after such a conviction.

Any University office receiving a federal grant must notify the federal or granting agency within ten days after receiving notice from an employee or student of a conviction for violation of any criminal drug law on University property. Copy of such a notice must be forwarded to the Human Resources Department or the Vice President for Student Affairs. This notification applies to all employees and students who are directly engaged in the performance of work pursuant to the provisions of a federally sponsored grant or contract.

You Can Contribute to a Bryant University Drug-Free Workplace

A drug-free workplace means no drugs; no alcohol, marijuana, cocaine, speed, PCP, heroin, or other drugs at work. Even cigarettes and some prescription drugs can be a danger. We maintain a drug-free workplace because drugs keep you from doing your best on the job, and the effects can be dangerous to others as well.

Did You Know?

• One out of every ten adults in the U.S. is addicted to alcohol.
• Because addiction runs in families, many children of addicts are likely to become addicts themselves.
• Alcohol and other drug abuse can lead to unsafe sexual behaviors that result in contracting the HIV virus or other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
• Marijuana can cause people to lose interest in hobbies, work, friends, and family. It can cause loss of drive and motivation. Also, on-the-job accidents are more likely to occur because people who use marijuana cannot react as fast.

Where to Begin

It is important to notice the signs of abuse and addiction early so that you may seek help. Addiction to alcohol or other drugs may be a serious disease. The longer you wait to find help, the harder it is to get better. In other words, the chances of staying healthy are better when alcohol abuse is stopped early. Changing your alcohol or other drug use is a decision only you can make.

Know the facts about alcohol and other drugs. If you have never used them, don't start. If you think your use is causing problems, think about stopping. Seek help now. Ask your doctor about the effects of using alcohol or other drugs; read about it; go to a lecture; take a class.

Using alcohol and other drugs can lead to addiction. Addictions are chronic diseases which mean that once you have the disease, you will have to live with it for the rest of your life. With treatment, however, you can control the disease and live a healthy and productive life. Millions of Americans are now recovering from alcohol and other drug addictions. Their lives are back on track. You can join them.

Recovering from alcohol/drug addiction is a process. You can start by staying away from alcohol and drugs one day at a time. The goal is to be sober. Being sober means learning to live without alcohol or other drugs. Often, the support of other people is needed. Family members, friends, support groups, and therapists, to name a few, can help you to accomplish your goal.

Avoid temptation to use again. Relapse occurs when you return to your old pattern of alcohol or other drug use. Although relapse is part of the disease, it does not have to happen to you.

Helping You Help Yourself

Members of the Bryant community who believe they have a problem with drug abuse may receive confidential information on prevention and treatment from a variety of sources, on or off campus.

Campus Support

Health Services: 232-6220
Human Resources: 232-6010
Counseling Services: 232-6045

External Support:

Butler Hospital: 455-6220
CODAC: 461-5056
Community Counseling Center: 723-1915
Family Resources: 766-0900
Roger Williams Medical Center/Substance Abuse Center: 456-2363
LifeWatch (Bryant University’s Employee Assistance Program): 1-800-333-6228