Equipment and vehicles essential in accomplishing job duties are expensive and may be difficult to replace.  When using University property, employees are expected to exercise care, perform required maintenance, and follow all operating instructions, safety standards and guidelines.  University property shall be used for official University business only.  Any exception to this policy must be pre-approved by the Vice President for Fiscal Affairs.

Employees are required to notify their supervisor if any equipment, machines, tools or vehicles appear to be damaged, defective or in need of repair. Prompt reporting of damages, defects and the need for repairs could prevent deterioration of equipment and possible injury to employees or others.  An employee’s supervisor can answer any questions about their responsibility for maintenance and care of equipment or vehicles used on the job.  The improper, careless, negligent, destructive or unsafe use or operation of equipment or vehicles, as well as excessive or avoidable traffic and parking violations, can result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment.

University vehicles shall be used for official University business only and shall be operated within the limits of traffic law and safety regulations.  Each employee who drives a University vehicle must successfully complete the University’s Vehicle Safety Program, and possess a valid state driver’s license or chauffeur’s license, as appropriate.  Use of any vehicle for University business requires the checking of Department of Motor Vehicle (DMV) records to determine the user’s driving record.  This is an activity conducted by the University’s Safety Officer in cooperation with the University’s Police department.

An employee (or vehicle operator) will be personally responsible for any fines incurred as a result of driving or parking violations while operating a University vehicle (or personally-owned vehicle).