How Long Does It Take to Complete a SAP Return-to-Duty Program?
DOT mandated safety-sensitive employees are an integral part of public life. They operate a vast number of public transportation vehicles, from buses to airplanes to trains. These employees often must undergo training and testing to prepare them for the responsibilities of their jobs. All of these steps ensure they don’t pose a risk to the traveling public. One more way the DOT ensures safety is through a SAP return-to-duty program.
Why the SAP Return-to-Duty Program was Put into Place
DOT-mandated employees often perform safety-sensitive duties. In order to maintain public safety, DOT drug and alcohol testing regulations are enforced. Tested employees include those in the aviation, trucking, railroad, transit, marine, and pipeline industries.
What If I Refuse or Fail a Test?
If a DOT mandated safety-sensitive employee refuses or fails a test, thus violating one of the DOT’s substance abuse rules, they will:
- Be removed from any safety-sensitive job functions.
- Undergo an evaluation by a qualified Substance Abuse Professional (SAP).
- Need to successfully comply with the education and/or treatment program, depending on the suggestions of the SAP after completing the initial evaluation.
- Complete a return-to-duty test prior to resuming safety-sensitive responsibilities.
One cannot know ahead of time how long a SAP return-to-duty program will take. Each case is different. The steps involved and the methods vary, and a repeated failed or refused test could require the process to be started all over.
The employee will also be subject to at least 6 randomized tests within the first 12 months. Plus, should the SAP deem it necessary, these unannounced and unexpected tests can continue for up to 5 years after resuming safety-sensitive responsibilities.
Benefits of Partnering with SAP Referral Services
One person’s substance abuse negatively affects the safety and quality of life of others. It can ruin the career and relationships of the struggling employee. Furthermore, if the person holds responsibilities such as the operation of a public vehicle, it also endangers the lives and well-being of countless others. The creation of the DOT alcohol and drug testing program helps protect the public from these hazards. Additionally, they also help the DOT employee receive the help they need to cope with their potential substance abuse problem.
A SAP return-to-duty program can take time to complete, and sometimes getting started with the process can be lengthy. However, at SAP Referral Services, we understand how important getting back to work can be for you. That’s why we offer FastTrack Enrollment.
Complete just two steps and usually we can schedule you with a qualified SAP within 72 business hours. We strive to help you complete your SAP program quickly and get back to work in less time. Learn more about our FastTrack Enrollment today!
SAP Referral Services (SRS) is the leading facilitator for mandated substance abuse evaluations. SRS maintains an extensive network of qualified providers in more than 3,000 locations nationwide for testing violations that originate from any of the DOT’s modes including FMCSA, FAA, FRA, FTA, USCG and PHMSA, or a company’s internal drug and alcohol testing policy.