Previous Story
PSS adopts new regs on drug testing
|
Posted on Oct 29 2004
The Board of Education has adopted new regulations that would require certain Public School System employees to undergo drug testing.
Starting Nov. 7, PSS will implement drug screening for all employees occupying “safety sensitive positions,” particularly bus drivers and mechanics, as well as individuals applying for those positions.
Under the regulations, other PSS employees may also be subject to drug testing if they get involved in a traffic accident or based on reasonable suspicion of their supervisors.
In a policy statement, BOE said the mandatory drug testing was established to ensure the safety of PSS employees and the community.
“PSS is concerned about the adverse effects alcohol and substance abuse may have on safe and productive job performance. We also recognize that any employee affected in his or her ability to perform safely and productively due to physical and emotional problems or use or abuse of alcohol and other drug substances jeopardizes the integrity of the workplace and the achievement of the PSS mission,” a portion of the policy statement said.
Further, BOE reminded its employees that alcoholism, problem drinking and drug addiction are treatable illnesses.
“Therefore, we encourage employees who have problems with drugs or alcohol to utilize all available resources to resolve their problems before those problems affect their job performance,” the board said.
A draft version of the regulations was published in the Aug. 26 issue of the Commonwealth Register. On Oct. 18, BOE chair Roman C. Benavente signed a notice and certification of adoption of the new set of rules, which included modifications to the proposed version.
Benavente said revisions were made to place the administration of the regulations under PSS and the Education commissioner rather than the Office of Personnel Management and the personnel director.
The new regulations were published in the Oct. 26 issue of the Commonwealth Register. Adopted regulations take effect 10 days after publication.
