At all times the University wishes to maintain high standards of professional conduct amongst its employees. Heriot-Watt University will endeavour to ensure that an employee's use of alcohol or other substances does not impair the safe and efficient running of the University or the health and safety of its employees. Substances are defined as drugs, both prescribed and non-prescribed, and solvents. This policy is not intended to intrude upon the privacy of individuals, particularly in health matters, where their condition does not affect their conduct or performance at work.

see also: alcohol, policy

The University recognises that drinking alcohol can be an enjoyable and harmless feature of student life and it has no wish to discourage sensible drinking. However, the University has a duty of care to all its students and considers that it is important to try to address the harmful effects of excessive alcohol use, whether physical, social or academic. The policy commits the University to developing a strategy to address alcohol use. The Director of Student Welfare Services is responsible for developing and implementing the strategy

see also: alcohol, policy