The purpose of this chapter is to provide for an Employee Assistance Program which is a benefit for those full-time and part-time employees who receive regular benefits under applicable City regulations and ordinances.
(Prior code § 8B-213)
A.
Recognizing that declining job performance and behavioral problems may be caused by factors not directly associated with one's job function, it is the City's policy to make help available rather than to merely discipline employees when these problems affect performance. Accordingly, the City will establish an Employee Assistance Program, which has as its goal restoring employees to optimal job performance by using a positive approach to reduce losses of productivity, as well as offering assistance and encouraging employees to help themselves through self referral.
B.
The Employee Assistance Program will include the following principles:
1.
Behavioral disorders, emotional problems, alcoholism and other substance abuse are illnesses which can be successfully treated, and employees experiencing these problems will receive the same careful consideration and offer of assistance that is extended to employees having other illnesses.
2.
The program will be conducted to ensure the same respect and confidentiality accorded employees suffering from any health condition.
3.
Employees will be encouraged to contact a designated counselor or program coordinator for confidential assistance if needed.
4.
The decision to seek evaluation of problems and accept suggested treatment is the employee's responsibility. However, if a supervisor alerts an employee to a performance problem, it is the employee's responsibility, along with the supervisor's, to take whatever steps are necessary to resolve the problem.
5.
No employee will have his or her job security or promotion opportunities jeopardized by seeking counseling or assistance.
6.
Nothing in the Employee Assistance Program will prohibit formal disciplinary or adverse action, including termination of employment, where performance is deficient. However, appropriate consideration will be given to employees in treatment programs before disciplining them.
C.
The Employee Assistance Program will include provisions to educate and inform employees about:
1.
The dangers of drug and alcohol abuse in the workplace and the community at large;
2.
The City's policy of maintaining a drug-free workplace;
3.
A thorough explanation of the purpose and workings of the Employee Assistance Program;
4.
The penalties that may be imposed for drug and alcohol abuse violations.
D.
The Employee Assistance Program shall provide a supervisor's training program to assist supervisory personnel in identifying drug and alcohol use among employees. Such training will be directed towards helping supervisors to recognize the conduct and behavior giving rise to a reasonable suspicion of drug or alcohol use, to identify employees who need drug counseling and employee assistance programs and to be aware of those employees who pose an immediate safety threat.
(Prior code § 8B-214)