According to the Department of Transportation (DOT), an individual with a failed pre-employment, random or follow-up urine screen or breathalyzer must complete the Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) return to duty process in order to be eligible to perform safety-sensitive duties.
The Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) process includes the following:
- DOT SAP face-to- face initial evaluation is performed.
- Substance Abuse Professional makes a recommendation of education or treatment/counseling.
- Substance Abuse Professional sends documentation of evaluation and recommendations to employer.
- Individual displays compliance with initial recommendations.
- DOT SAP face-to- face follow up evaluation is performed.
- Substance Abuse Professional sends documentation of follow-up evaluation and follow-up testing plan.
- Individual is approved by employer to take a Return To Duty (RTD) urine screen and breathalyzer.
- Individual has a negative RTD urine screen and breathalyzer.
- Employer returns individual to safety-sensitive duties at work.
- Employer continues to have individual participate in the follow-up drug/alcohol testing plan.
- Individual continues to participate in any aftercare recommendations made by Substance Abuse Professional.