Weapons in the Workplace Policy
Objective #
The purpose of this policy is to provide a safe working environment for employees by establishing rules regarding weapons on property occupied by University of Tennessee Foundation, Inc.
Policy #
Firearms Prohibited #
The University of Tennessee Foundation, Inc. (UTFI) prohibits all employees, leased from the University of Tennessee or directly hired, from carrying a handgun, firearm, or prohibited weapon of any kind onto UTFI property regardless of whether the employee is licensed to carry the weapon or not.
This policy applies to all UTFI employees, leased from the University of Tennessee (UT), directly hired, contract, temporary and student employees. Visitors on University property may not carry a concealed weapon, regardless of whether or not they are licensed to carry a concealed weapon. The only exceptions to this policy will be police officers, security guards or other University of Tennessee employees who are licensed to carry a concealed weapon and have registered with campus security to have written consent by the University of Tennessee to carry a weapon on University property.
All UTFI employees are also prohibited from carrying a weapon while in the course and scope of performing their job, whether they are on UTFI or University property at the time or not and whether they are licensed to carry a handgun or not. Employees may not carry a weapon while performing any task on the UTFI’s behalf. This policy also prohibits weapons at any UTFI or University sponsored function such as parties or picnics.
Specifically excluded from this policy are recreational hunting and shooting by UTFI and University employees either (1) on University or UTFI property appropriate for such activities or (2) on property not owned or operated by UT or UTFI if such activities are within the course and scope of one’s UTFI or University employment.
Prohibited Weapons #
Prohibited weapons include any form of weapon or explosive restricted under local, state or federal regulation. This includes all firearms, illegal knives or other weapons covered by the law. If you have a question about whether an item is covered by this policy, please contact the UTFI Office of Human Resources. You will be held responsible for ensuring that any potentially covered item you possess is not prohibited by this policy.
Property #
- “UTFI property” covered by this policy includes, without limitation, all UTFI and University of Tennessee owned or leased buildings and surrounding areas such as sidewalks and walkways under the UTFI’s ownership or control (including by lease from the University or from others). UT vehicles are covered by this policy at all times regardless of whether they are on UTFI or University property at the time.
- Parking Areas -In accordance with Tennessee law (TCA § 39-17-1313), and unless expressly prohibited by federal law, an employee who is the holder of a valid handgun carry permit may transport and store a firearm or firearm ammunition in the employee’s private motor vehicle while parked in an authorized location. The firearm and firearm ammunition must be kept from ordinary observation and locked in the trunk, glove box, interior of the motor vehicle or a container securely affixed to a motor vehicle. For purposes of this section, motor vehicle does not include any that are owned, operated or controlled by the University and that are provided by the University for use during the course of employment.
Searches #
UTFI reserves the right to conduct searches of any employee, office or object that enters onto UTFI property. Pursuant to this provision, UTFI is authorized to search lockers, desks, purses, briefcases, baggage, toolboxes, lunch sacks, clothing, and any other item in which a weapon may be hidden.
Additionally, UTFI may search a vehicle used by the employee to conduct business on behalf of the Company, regardless of whether the vehicle is located on University or UTFI property at the time. Searches may be conducted by UTFI leadership, UT Police or local authorities. To the extent the search is requested by UTFI leadership and the employee is present, the employee may refuse the search; provided, however, that such refusal can result in termination of employment for refusal to cooperate. UTFI reserves the right to conduct searches on its property or authorize searches by UT Police or law enforcement on its property without the employee being present. Any searches under this policy shall be reasonable both in determination of need and execution of the search.
Violations #
Failure to abide by all terms and conditions of the policies described above may result in discipline up to and including termination. Refer to TM0002 Disciplinary Action. Further, carrying a weapon onto UTFI or University property in violation of this policy will be considered an act of criminal trespass and will be grounds for immediate removal from the property, and may result in prosecution.
NOTE: This policy shall not be construed to create any duty or obligation on the part of utfi to take any actions beyond those required of an employer by existing law.
If you become aware of anyone violating this policy, please report it to the UTFI Office of Human Resources or UT Police immediately.
UT Police Department
1101 Cumberland Av.
Knoxville, TN 37996
865-974-3114
[email protected]
UTFI Office of Talent Management
1525 University Avenue
Knoxville, TN 37921
865-974-4686
[email protected]