401: Professional Conduct
Statement
Georgetown University employees are expected to behave in a professional, business-like manner at work, on University premises, and whenever representing the University. Employees are expected to demonstrate mutual respect and courtesy for one another. Language, actions and behaviors should promote communication and engagement, creating an environment where employees can do their best work. Employees are accountable for behavior outside of work that has a negative impact on the individual’s ability to perform his/her responsibilities at work.
Philosophy
To avoid damage to the integrity of Georgetown University or its employees, and to protect the rights of employees, patients, families, and the public, the University has established guidelines concerning professional conduct of employees.
Procedures
Areas of conduct covered by this policy and standards of conduct include, but are not limited to the following (Departments may establish more specific guidelines based on departmental needs.):
- University Resources – Unauthorized use of telephones, copiers, fax machines, computers, courier services, postage, office supplies, and other business equipment and supplies is prohibited. For additional information see “Incidental Personal Use of Electronic Resources”.
- Personal Business – Employees may not conduct personal business during work hours or use University resources for personal business.
- Professional Organizations – Employees who belong to outside professional organizations should ensure that association with the organization, its conduct or membership, does not negatively impact on the individual’s ability to perform the duties of his or her job. Employees should not represent themselves as official spokespersons for Georgetown University unless authorized.
- Firearms, Dangerous Weapons, Explosives, Lethal Materials – Unauthorized use, possession or storage of these or other potentially dangerous items on University premises or at University-sponsored activities, whether or not a federal or local license to possess the same has been issued, is strictly prohibited.
- Visitors – Unauthorized visitors during work hours are prohibited.
- Alcohol and Other Drugs – Being under the influence of alcohol or illegal or controlled substances when reporting to work, while on the job, or in connection with carrying out University responsibilities or on University premises is prohibited. In addition, possessing or selling illegal or controlled substances while on the job, in connection with carrying out University responsibilities or on University premises is also prohibited. This procedure is in addition to other University policies including those concerning a drug free workplace, and substance abuse by vehicle operators.
- Dress Code – An employee’s dress and appearance should be appropriate to the person’s job functions and the performance standards established for his/her position. All employees are expected to maintain an acceptable level of grooming and hygiene. University expectations will not conflict with applicable federal or local statutes including those prohibiting discrimination based on ethnic or national origins.
- Convictions – A Georgetown employee who is convicted of a felony or misdemeanor during his/her employment at Georgetown University must notify his/her supervisor immediately. Georgetown University may terminate an employee as a result of such a conviction or for failure to notify the University.
Responsibility
All University employees must follow the procedures outlined above, other University policies concerning employee conduct, and specific departmental guidelines.
Resources
Contact the Human Resources department if you have questions or if you would like more information about this policy.