DOT-Mandated Employees – Protecting the Safety of the General Public
DOT-mandated employees who perform safety-sensitive duties play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of the general public while operating various modes of transportation and are required to follow strict rules and regulations to maintain a drug-free workplace.
What Types of Jobs Might Safety-Sensitive DOT-Mandated Employees Have?
A safety-sensitive employee is an individual who holds a position that involves tasks and responsibilities that directly impact public safety. These employees work in positions that require alertness, attentiveness, and good judgment, and any impairment could have severe consequences. Examples of safety-sensitive employees include:
- Commercial drivers: Truck drivers, bus drivers, and other transportation workers who operate vehicles that weighs in excess of 26,001 pounds, carry hazardous materials, or 15 or more passengers fall into this category.
- Pilots and air traffic controllers: These employees work in the aviation industry and are responsible for safely guiding aircraft in the air and on the ground.
- Train and subway operators: These employees are responsible for operating trains and subways, ensuring that they are on time and that passengers are transported safely.
- Pipeline workers: These employees work in the oil and gas industry, ensuring that pipelines are maintained and operated safely to prevent leaks and other hazards.
- Maritime workers: Employees who work on ships, including crew members and officers, fall into this category.
The safety of the general public is the top priority for DOT-mandated employees, and it is essential that they remain drug and alcohol-free while on the job. To ensure this, DOT-mandated employees are subject to regular drug and alcohol testing, both before they’re hired and during their employment. These tests help to ensure that employees are not impaired while on the job and can perform their duties safely.
A Failed Drug and/or Alcohol Test? Now What?
If a DOT-mandated employee is found to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol while on duty they can face serious consequences. The first consequence is immediate removal from safety-sensitive duties to ensure they are held accountable for their actions and that the safety of the general public is not compromised. At this point, they are required to begin the return to duty process by finding a SAP in their area for an initial evaluation. Once their SAP recommends a treatment and/or education program, they are expected to comply before undergoing a follow-up evaluation. At that point, if their SAP determines compliance, they can submit to a return to duty drug and/or alcohol test.
Safety-Sensitive DOT-Mandated Employees: Find a SAP With SRS
Have you failed a drug and/or alcohol test? Are you looking for a SAP for your employees? If you are looking for assistance with DOT compliance, please get in touch with SRS. We can schedule DOT-mandated employees with a SAP near them quickly!