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Empower individuals to return to work safely and sustainably after DOT violations.
Understanding the Return-to-Duty Process Steps.
Initial SAP Evaluation
The initial step in the DOT Return-to-Duty process involves a comprehensive and detailed evaluation by a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP).
Treatment/Education
After the initial evaluation, individuals undergo treatment and education to address substance abuse issues and promote recovery.
Follow-Up SAP Evaluation
SAPs conduct thorough evaluations to assess progress, adjust recommendations, and determine readiness for the next step in the DOT Return-to-Duty process.
Return-to-Duty Testing
SAPs conduct comprehensive testing to confirm abstinence and ensure readiness for return to duty in safety-sensitive DOT-regulated roles.
Follow-Up Testing / Continued Treatment
SAPs ensure sustained compliance and support long-term recovery through ongoing testing and treatment.
Take the Next Step
Don't let a substance abuse violation hold you back. Contact a SAP today to start your journey towards recovery and a successful return to work.
SAP's Follow-Up Testing Duties
As a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP), you must establish a follow-up testing plan for employees returning to safety-sensitive positions after a DOT violation. This plan, developed after verifying the employee’s completion of required education or treatment, outlines the number and frequency of tests.
You are responsible for ensuring at least six unannounced tests are conducted within the first 12 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
The DOT Return-to-Duty process, governed by 49 CFR Part 40, outlines the steps for employees who have violated DOT drug and alcohol regulations to safely return to safety-sensitive functions. It involves an initial SAP evaluation, treatment and education, follow-up SAP evaluations, return-to-duty testing, and ongoing follow-up testing and treatment as necessary.
The Initial SAP Evaluation is the first step in the return-to-duty process. During this evaluation, a qualified Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) assesses the employee’s violation, determines underlying issues, and provides recommendations for treatment and follow-up testing. This evaluation sets the foundation for the employee’s recovery plan.
At a minimum, employees must undergo six unannounced follow-up tests within the first 12 months after returning to safety-sensitive duties. The SAP may require more tests or extend the follow-up period based on the individual’s needs. However, the requirement for six tests within the first year cannot be changed.
If an employee changes jobs, the new employer must continue the follow-up testing as prescribed by the SAP. The responsibility for completing the remaining tests transfers to the new employer, who must ensure compliance with the SAP’s follow-up plan.
DOT Return-to-Duty Intake Process
The DOT Return-to-Duty Intake Process ensures that employees who have violated DOT drug or alcohol regulations are properly evaluated and reintegrated into safety-sensitive functions. This process begins with an evaluation by a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP), who will determine the necessary steps for treatment and follow-up testing.
The intake process includes verifying compliance with treatment recommendations, establishing a detailed follow-up testing plan, and ensuring that all testing requirements are communicated to both the employee and the employer.
