Loyola University Chicago

Human Resources

Post-Offer Physical and Drug Screening

Policy/Purpose
As a condition of employment, all individuals who are offered and accept employment in a staff position must be physically and mentally able to perform the essential functions of the position in a safe and appropriate manner free from the adverse effects of drugs and alcohol. This remains true during the duration of employment as outlined in our Fitness for Duty Policy. This policy establishes guidelines for post-offer physicals and drug screening (including cannabis) for staff positions as specified in this policy.

Definitions/Applications
This policy applies to individuals at Loyola University Chicago who have received an offer of employment or transfer into a position where concern for safety for self and/or others is a priority and applies to, but not limited to, specific positions in the following areas: 

  • Wellness Center
  • Preschool
  • Campus Safety
  • Facilities
  • Departments where employees may have animal and/or patient contact

This listing will be modified as needed. Immunizations and testing are defined by position held or type of animal involvement and identified by a Human Resources representative(s) during the post-offer hiring process. In addition, positions such as technicians and lab assistants may be subject to environmental and/or bio safety assessments as required

Information/Procedures
All offers of employment for staff are made by the University’s Human Resources Division.

A post-offer physical and/or drug screening for staff positions as specified should be scheduled within 48 hours of the acceptance of employment and follow the process as administered by Loyola University Chicago’s Human Resources for the respective campus location. Extenuating circumstances will require approval by the Vice President of Human Resources. Failure to pass the post-offer physical or drug screening may result in the withdrawal of the employment offer or termination of employment.

Results of the physical examination and/or drug screening will be communicated to Human Resources by the authorized testing facility. Human Resources will then inform the individual of the results.

Loyola University Chicago reaffirms our obligation and intent to hire and provide all employees with the opportunity to grow, develop, and contribute to our collective success without regard to race, color, religion (except where religion is a bona fide occupational qualification for the job), national origin, citizenship status, sex, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, veteran status, or any other factor protected by law.

Notification of this policy will be made to applicants for employment through posting.

Responsible Party
Human Resources will be responsible for following the established protocol for post-offer physicals and drug screening. Any questions or concerns regarding this policy should be addressed to the Vice President of Human Resources, Loyola University Chicago.

Confidentiality
Medical Records are protected by state and federal confidentiality laws and Loyola University Chicago policy. The medical records for a post-offer physical and/or drug screening will be maintained by Employee Health (Health Sciences employees), other approved testing facilities, or medical providers. Medical records will not be released to unauthorized personnel without the employee’s written consent or compelled by law or other legal process. 

Revised: 6/6/14, 2/11/20, 2/23/24