SAP Program for Your Employees

A DOT 5-Panel Screening is used as a screening for 5 types of drugs (Marijuana, Cocaine, Amphetamines, Opiates and Phencyclidine) using urine samples administered by employers as part of a pre-employment test as well as over the course of employment. If a drug test (or alcohol test) is failed, a SAP professional is a person who evaluates the employees that have violated DOT regulations. A SAP is the preferred professional when it comes to evaluation, education and treatment recommendations.

There are several factors that you need to be cognizant about when it comes to the DOT industry. When an employer secures a positive test, DOT requires that the employer removes the employee from their safety-sensitive work functions. The DOT will fine an employer who refuses to comply. The employer can terminate the employee or have the employee go through a SAP program, complete the return-to-duty process and then provide negative drug testing results in subsequent tests.

How A Sap Program Benefits You

The SAP professional underlines and “prioritizes the importance of safety” in the US Department of Transportation. Their primary objective is to help ensure that roads, railways, and traveling routes are safe at all times. The transportation industry has worked hard to reduce the number of crashes and accidents stemming from drug and alcohol use and protect the public safety overall. However, the role of the SAP professional is to mitigate human risk factors that are still prevalent, as it is aware that illicit drug use is still a serious problem.

Finding a SAP Program in Your Area

A SAP program in your area will ensure that employees can be presented with a second chance if they are serious about rehabilitation and removing drug use as a factor in their professional lives. Preliminary and subsequent evaluations will determine if an employee has made sufficient progress in their recommended program. Based on the information, the SAP will inform the employer if the employee has successfully completed their drug and/or alcohol education or treatment program. The program alleviates the burden on the employer, with the SAP program only ensuring those that have successfully passed their regimen to return to the workforce.

If you are an employer looking for a SAP program for your employees, SAP Referral Services can help. For more information on our services, get in touch with us today.

source: The Substance Abuse Professional Guidelines