What Happens During a SAP Substance Abuse Evaluation?

If a DOT mandated safety-sensitive employee fails or refuses drug and/or alcohol testing, then that employee must complete the return-to-duty process before they can work again. Meeting with a SAP (Substance Abuse Professional) for a substance abuse evaluation is the first step in the process. Therefore, finding the right SAP is critical. Read on to learn more about making the connection easier with SAP Referral Services.

Understanding the Return-to-Duty Process

Have you been removed from your safety-sensitive duties due to a failed drug and/or alcohol test? It’s very important that you understand how the return-to-duty process works if you want to get back to work quickly. The process includes several steps:

  • Finding a DOT-qualified Substance Abuse Professional
  • A face-to-face assessment with your SAP
  • Assignment of a treatment plan which can include treatment, education, and/or counseling
  • Compliance with the SAP’s recommendations
  • A face-to-face follow-up evaluation with your SAP
  • Recommendation for submitting a return-to-duty test

Preparing for Your Substance Abuse Evaluation

Now we’ll explain what to expect in a substance abuse evaluation with a SAP. This evaluation helps determine what could be causing your addiction or substance abuse issues. More importantly, you’ll learn how to address any issues that are found. A SAP uses screening tools and performs a clinical interview to ascertain some or all of the following:

  • Do you have a drug or alcohol use or abuse issue?
  • How long have you been dealing with that issue?
  • How do drugs and alcohol affect your life?
  • What type of treatment plan will work best for your specific circumstances?

It’s important you find a DOT-qualified SAP and take your substance abuse evaluation and treatment plan seriously. When you successfully comply with the SAP’s recommendations you undergo a follow-up evaluation and will receive approval to submit to a return-to-duty test. Ultimately, your employer holds the right to allow you to return to your safety-sensitive duties or not. Regardless of where you work, expect to take a minimum of six follow up tests over a twelve-month period to confirm your sobriety.

Working with SAP Referral Services

Successfully completing the return-to-duty process hinges on you finding a DOT-qualified SAP close to your area as soon as possible. Thankfully, SAP Referral Services (SRS) offers FastTrack Enrollment to help you find a DOT-qualified SAP so you can begin your return-to-duty process sooner rather than later. Our network includes clinical specialists in over 3,000 locations across the U.S., so you are likely to find a SAP that is located nearby.

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.