Which substances are employees prohibited from using or being under the influence of while on duty?

Employees are prohibited from using or being under the influence of alcoholic beverages, intoxicants, and controlled substances while on duty because these substances can impair judgment, reaction time, and overall performance. The safety of operations in a railroad environment is paramount, as any impairment can lead to serious accidents or incidents. Therefore, maintaining a drug-free workplace is critical to ensuring that employees can perform their duties effectively and safely.

While food and drinks, as well as prescription medications, may have specific guidelines or requirements for use, they are not universally prohibited in the same manner as intoxicants. It’s important for employees to be aware of how certain medications can affect them, but they are not outright banned from usage. Similarly, while caffeine and nicotine can influence alertness and focus, they do not carry the same risks of impairment or addiction as substances in the correct answer. Hence, the focus on prohibiting intoxicants is essential for the safety and integrity of operations.