WVU-HR-53
UNAUTHORIZED ABSENCE POLICY
PURPOSE
To outline the means by which WVU administers unauthorized absence from the work site in accordance with WV Board of Trustees Series 35, WV Board of Trustees Classified Employee Handbook.
SCOPE
All faculty, faculty equivalent/academic professional (FE/AP), classified and non-classified employees at West Virginia University, including those on the regional campuses, are covered under this policy.
POLICY
The University has the right to expect a reliable workforce, and employees are expected to be present and functioning at work as scheduled. Employees are to obtain proper authorization to be away from the work site for any reason. Prior to their normal start time, employees must notify their supervisor if unable to report to work for any reason. Prior to leaving the work site, employees must notify their supervisor if unable to continue work for any reason. Employees are to maintain adequate leave accruals to cover absences from the workplace, or, to provide proper notification, documentation and obtain prior authorization for a leave of absence without pay. Failure to comply with any of these expectations results in unauthorized leave.
Absence from work for three consecutive workdays without proper notice, explanation and/or authorization shall be deemed gross misconduct and neglect of duty, and may result in disciplinary action up to and including the employee’s termination. An unauthorized absence of any duration may result in, but is not limited to: prohibition to charge time absent to requested leave; discontinuation of benefit access; disallowed or discontinued leave of absence; or termination of employment.
PROCEDURE
Additional information regarding this policy or the proper procedure to follow can be obtained in the Unauthorized Leave procedure.
RESPONSIBILITY FOR IMPLEMENTATION
The immediate supervisor is responsible for ensuring an employee’s compliance with this policy. The Employee Relations Unit in the Department of Human Resources, at 293-5700 or P.O. Box 6640, is available to answer questions or provide additional information regarding this policy.
RESPONSIBILITY FOR INTERPRETATION
The responsibility for interpretation of this policy rests with the Director of Human Resources, West Virginia University.
EFFECTIVE DATE: September 10, 1998
APPROVED BY: Scott C. Kelley, Vice President
