SAP Programs in Colorado for FRA Employees

Safety-sensitive employees mandated by the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) working as conductors, brakemen, engineers, locomotive hostlers, train dispatchers, or signal employees who inspect or repair signal systems, are subject to DOT drug and alcohol testing regulations. Their job must be completed safely, efficiently, and as carefully as possible. It is no place for drug and alcohol use. Unfortunately, mistakes can happen. If you are a DOT mandated safety-sensitive employee who is looking into SAP programs in Colorado, or anywhere across the US, please read on.

When Does a Safety-Sensitive Employee Undergo Testing?

DOT mandated safety-sensitive employees are tested for drug and alcohol use before they are employed, randomly tested once they are hired, and if there is ever a reasonable cause of suspicion. Additionally, if the employee is involved in an accident that causes injuries or property damage, they will be tested immediately after the event.

FRA Safety-Sensitive Employees Who Need a SAP

The return-to-duty process begins when a FRA DOT mandated safety-sensitive employee violates a drug or alcohol test. They may refuse to take the test, or they fail it. The employee is immediately removed from their safety-sensitive duties. Next, they will have a face-to-face substance abuse evaluation with a SAP.

A Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) evaluates employees who have violated DOT drug and/or alcohol regulations. Their job is to protect the public rather than the employer or employee. As part of a return-to-duty process, a SAP may prescribe treatment, educational requirements as well as follow-up testing, and perhaps aftercare.

Once the employee successfully complies with the SAP’s recommendations, they will meet with the SAP for a follow-up. The SAP makes the critical decision of whether or not an employee is given clearance to submit to a return-to-duty test and go back to work.

SAP Referral Services Provides Easy Access to SAP Programs in Colorado and Beyond

SAP Referral Services (SRS) connects FRA and other DOT mandated safety-sensitive employees with SAPs across the nation. Our list contains over 3,000 SAPs who are guaranteed to be DOT-qualified at the time of your initial evaluation. This assures success versus finding a SAP on your own and having the treatment steps potentially not count because the SAP was no longer DOT-qualified.

SAP Referral Services has assisted over 25,000 employees in the return-to-duty process. Our FastTrack Enrollment is quick and easy. You can enroll in a matter of minutes and typically are scheduled with a SAP near you within 72 hours. For more information about our programs, contact us.