The Return to Duty Process for PHMSA Employees
Are you wondering about the return to duty process? If you are a safety-sensitive Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) mandated employee and have failed a drug or alcohol test at work, you’re likely worried about how you’ll return to work in a timely fashion. However, as long as you successfully complete the return to duty process with a qualified SAP in your area, and provide a negative result for a drug and/or alcohol return-to-duty test, you can return to safety-sensitive work.
Substance Abuse Professionals and the Return to Duty Process
The first step in the return to duty process is to be evaluated by a DOT qualified Substance Abuse Professional (SAP). The SAP will perform an initial evaluation and recommend the steps you need to take to get back to work. These steps typically involve education and/or substance abuse treatment, follow-up drug and/or alcohol testing, and potentially an aftercare program. A SAP’s role is to help protect the public by ensuring compliance regarding workplace safety.
To qualify as a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) provider, you must meet one of the following licensing requirements:
- Licensed Physician (Doctor of Medicine or Osteopathy)
- Licensed or certified Social Worker
- Licensed or certified Marriage and Family Therapist
- Licensed or certified Psychologist
- Licensed or certified Employee Assistance Professional
- Drug and Alcohol Counselor certified by the National Association of Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counselors Certification Commission(NAADAC), the International Certification Reciprocity Consortium/Alcohol and other Drug Abuse (ICRC) or the National Board of Certified Counselors (NBCC)
Initial SAP Evaluation
During the initial SAP evaluation, expect to be asked about your drug or alcohol use as well as family history involving drug and alcohol use. You may be asked questions that pertain to your mental health and physical health. Your SAP will also conduct standardized testing and collect any information that will help them recommend an individualized treatment and/or education course.
Follow-Up SAP Evaluation
After you comply with the recommended program, you can meet for a follow-up evaluation with your SAP. During the re-evaluation process, your SAP will ensure that you’ve complied with all recommended education or treatment programs. Your SAP will also follow up with your treatment professionals. If they determine compliance, they can recommend you submit to a return to duty drug and/or alcohol test.
Negative Test
In order to return to work, you must pass a return-to-duty drug or alcohol test. If you provide a negative result you can resume safety-sensitive duties. Keep in mind that you will be required to pass a minimum of six unannounced drug or alcohol tests during the subsequent year in order to maintain your employment as a PHMSA professional.
Contact SRS to find a SAP in your area. Getting an evaluation is the first crucial step to getting back to work.