Directive 54 (3) Quiz

Indicators of Anabolic Steroid Use/Abuse

• Potential signs include significant changes in physical appearance, aggressive behavior, and unusual increases in strength or endurance.

Non-Disciplinary Referral Procedure

• Aimed at assisting employees who may be struggling with substance-use issues without facing disciplinary actions.
• First step involves the supervisor assessing the employee's behavior and considering a referral to the Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

Supervisor's Referral to Employee Assistance Program

• The purpose is to provide support and resources for employees dealing with personal or behavioral issues related to substance abuse.

Final Step in Non-Disciplinary Referral Procedure

• The final step typically involves monitoring the employee’s progress within the EAP and any follow-up actions as necessary.

Drug and Alcohol Screening after Accidents

• The Department may initiate screening when a vehicular accident occurs, and the operator's conduct might have been a contributing factor.
• The most efficient testing process post-accident is determined by the officer in charge at the scene.

Alcohol Test Reporting

• The on-duty Deputy Commissioner is responsible for reporting alcohol test results to the Special Investigation Officer (SIO).
• Drug test results are generally reported to the SIO following standard protocols.

Notification Requirements

• All relevant member(s) involved in post-accident testing must be notified appropriately.

Water Ingestion Limitations

• Members under suspicion are restricted to a maximum amount of water intake before testing to ensure test validity.

Notification Protocols

• If the assigned Deputy Chief is unavailable, the Battalion Chief should inform the next available senior officer.
• During normal working hours, adhere to Union notification standards.
• When Fire Headquarters is closed, the Deputy Chief must contact the on-call officer for any necessary notifications.

Actions Indicated by Testing

• If testing is indicated, the Deputy Chief must initiate the required processes promptly and ensure all actions align with departmental policies.

Post-Specimen Collection Procedures

• After a member provides specimens for testing, the Battalion Chief is responsible for transporting the member to a designated location.
• Members awaiting test results remain on duty but may be subject to limitations or additional scrutiny depending on the circumstances.

Consequences of Confirmed Substance Abuse

• If test results confirm substance abuse, appropriate disciplinary actions may be taken, including possible treatment referrals and/or penalties.

Memo to the Fire Commissioner

• The Battalion Chief is required to forward a memo summarizing the incident and actions taken to ensure proper documentation and accountability.

Testing for Fatal and Nonfatal Accidents

• Drug and alcohol tests are conducted on employees involved in Department-owned vehicle accidents, both fatal and nonfatal, as per the outlined protocols.

Timeliness of Tests

• If an alcohol test is not conducted within two hours following an accident, the Battalion Chief must take specific steps to document this failure.
• Covered employees must be tested promptly as required under the regulations.

Consequences for Testing Availability

• If a covered employee fails to remain readily available for post-accident testing, it could lead to disciplinary actions.

Definition of 'Reasonable Suspicion'

• 'Reasonable suspicion’ refers to a belief based on specific facts or circumstances that an individual may be abusing substances.

Basis for 'Reasonable Suspicion'

• Factors include observable changes in behavior, performance issues, or direct evidence of substance use.

Actions Upon Initiating Disciplinary Action

• Supervisors must provide a clear justification for the disciplinary actions taken based on ‘reasonable suspicion’ and follow established procedures.

Role of Employee Assistance Program

• The EAP provides education, counseling, and resources to employees regarding substance abuse prevention and intervention strategies.

SIO Authority for Testing

• The SIO can direct a member to undergo testing for anabolic androgenic steroids if there is reasonable suspicion based on the member's behavior or actions.

Quiz: Test Your Knowledge on Identifying Signs of Anabolic Steroid Use/Abuse