The primary objective of the Agency's procedure is for guidance of all employees. The purpose is not to restrict the rights of anyone, but to protect the rights of all and ensure the safe, orderly and efficient operation of the Agency.

The standard for the implementation of this procedure shall be that an employee's behavior disrupts their own or someone else's ability to perform their duties effectively, or violates a law, code, policy or professional standard.

All employees are expected to conduct themselves in accordance with the Values of the Agency. Employees are expected to behave in a professional, courteous manner while at work. Tardiness, loafing or sleeping on the job constitutes inappropriate utilization of agency resources. Employees are encouraged to enjoy their work and the company of their co-workers, but must maintain awareness that a respectful attitude toward the resources of the Agency and the needs of others and completion of work is necessary.

Due to the sensitive nature of the Agency's business, it is very important that employees maintain high standards of conduct while they are on duty. The guidelines will apply whenever an employee is on duty, regardless of location. This includes not only Agency owned and leased facilities, but anywhere the Agency conducts business or any public venue where you are representing North East Ohio Health Services. When off duty, the employee is expected to keep standards of conduct that will not negatively affect the image and credibility of the Agency.

The Code of Conduct outlines examples of unacceptable behavior that may subject the violator to disciplinary action. These examples should be considered representative, rather than all inclusive of unacceptable conduct for which disciplinary action will be taken. New and/or amended rules may be established by the Agency for conduct not specifically covered by these rules if such conduct is harmful either to the rights of other employees, clients, visitors, or the overall and general safety and operation of the Agency.

It is the responsibility of every employee to know and follow these rules. The acts may subject an employee to discipline, up to and including discharge, depending upon the circumstances surrounding the offense, the amount of potential harm to a person served, the amount of liability the Agency has been exposed to, the past practices of the organization for similar offenses, and the employee's past performance record. Refer to specific policy on Code of Conduct.