I Failed a DOT Test. What is a SAP Return to Duty Program?

Safety regulations for the Department of Transportation (DOT) are stringent and include strict adherence to passing drug and alcohol screening. If you’ve failed or refused a pre-employment or random screening, or if you’ve been involved in an accident and didn’t pass your DOT drug or alcohol screening, you may be confused about your next step. Luckily, completing a SAP return to duty program can help you restore your safety-sensitive job and get back on the road again.

What is the SAP Return to Duty Program?

The DOT is committed to keeping American roads safe by keeping safety-sensitive employees drug and alcohol-free. If you test positive for drugs or alcohol, you will be removed from your safety-sensitive position and your livelihood is then put on the line. However, for those employees who struggle with addiction or substance abuse, there is hope. Once you’ve failed a drug and/or alcohol test, DOT guidelines require you to contact a SAP to help guide you through recovery and clear you to return to duty.

The Return to Duty program allows you to get the help you need, and hopefully return to your job when you’ve completed the program. It aims to ensure the safety of both travelers on our nation’s roads and those working within a DOT mode.

What is a SAP?

SAP stands for Substance Abuse Professional. These individuals are trained, qualified clinicians that work with you and your individual needs to determine the right program to help you succeed with your substance abuse recovery. If you complete a SAP return to duty program, you’ll be one step closer to returning to your job.

How Does the Program Work?

When you begin the program, you’ll have an initial evaluation with your SAP. Based on your evaluation, the SAP will recommend one or more treatment options, including counseling, education, intensive outpatient therapy, or even inpatient drug and/or alcohol treatment to name a few.

As you complete the steps of your program, your SAP will be informed of your progress. They’ll ensure that you’re fully maintaining compliance with the program. Once you’ve completed the program, you’ll have a follow-up evaluation with your SAP. They’ll complete a follow-up report and recommend you for a return to duty drug and/or alcohol test.

How Can I Find a SAP?

You may be nervous about the SAP return to duty program, and you aren’t alone. Luckily there’s help. SAP Referral Services can put you in touch with a compassionate, qualified SAP near you and get you started on a program for substance abuse help. Visit us online today to get started!

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.