Violations of laws relating to controlled substances or alcohol are prohibited in or on Harvard premises, in vehicles provided by Harvard, at any site or location at which University duties are being performed by Harvard students, or as a part of any of Harvard's activities. Common examples of controlled substances, as defined by law, are cocaine, marijuana and heroin. To acquaint members of the Harvard community with the applicable laws, the University's Office of the General counsel has prepared a description of local, State and Federal laws concerning drugs and alcohol, which follows. The University will take disciplinary action against violators, consistent with Federal, State, and local laws. Such action may include requiring satisfactory participation in a substance abuse treatment, counseling or education program as a condition of reinstatement or continued employment with Harvard, suspension, termination of employment, and referral for prosecution.
Substance abuse is potentially harmful to health.
Because of the considerable health risks involved in drug and alcohol use, resources are available to assist the Harvard community in understanding and dealing with drug and alcohol abuse problems. Harvard employees can learn about the dangers of substance abuse and get information about treatment and counseling options available to the Harvard community through the Office of Health Education of the University Health Services, the Faculty and Staff Assistance Program and other activities of the Office of Human Resources. These programs and offices are part of Harvard's ongoing efforts to maintain a drug-free workplace. Additionally, any member of the University community may use the University Health Services on an emergency basis at any time, day and night. Finally, to ensure Harvard's compliance with the Drug-Free Workplace Act, any employee who is convicted of a violation of any criminal drug law occurring in the workplace must report that conviction to his or her immediate supervisor within five days.