Service Agents and DOT Regulated Employers
Service agents are any individual or organization that help implement DOT drug and alcohol test regulations. They issue a portion or the entire program, depending on the employer’s needs. Service agents follow regulations by state, however, they are typically trained on the finer points of testing, as well as transitioning employees back to safety-sensitive job functions. Types of service agents include:
1. Medical Review Officer
A fully-licensed and trained medical professional who reviews lab results and validates employee’s tests.
2. Urine Collector
Someone who obtains and transports urine specimens, ensuring their safety and integrity.
3. Laboratory
A certified laboratory examines urine specimens, including controlled substance analysis.
4. Substance Abuse Professional
Licensed professional in the field of health care with experience with diagnosis and treatment of addiction and related issues.
5. Screening Test Technician
Also known as breath alcohol technicians, these professionals conduct screenings and confirmation tests for alcohol while documenting and transmitting results.
6. Consortium/Third-party Administrator
Service agents who deal with a multitude of drug and alcohol testing. Though they conduct these services for employers, they may not serve as the designated employer representative.
What Happens When You Fail a Drug or Alcohol Test
Once a positive test result is confirmed, the employee is immediately removed from any safety-sensitive job functions. The employee must then begin, and successfully comply with, the return-to-duty process, which involves treatment and/or education, a follow-up evaluation, return to duty testing, and follow-up testing.
Partnering With SAP Service Agents for Better Results
Service agents make the return-to-duty process simpler by connecting employees to qualified SAPs in their area.
Service agents are also required to stay updated and knowledgeable about SAP programs and DOT agency regulations, so the employer is never out of the loop. They typically keep regularly-updated material on these regulations, so if there is a change to the return-to-duty process, they can inform the employee and employer about everything that relates to their case.
Get in touch with SRS today to learn more about how we can help DOT-regulated businesses. These professionals can help your organization get, or stay, on track.