What is a Qualified DOT SAP Professional?

Looking for a qualified DOT SAP professional to help you through the return to duty process? When you are a DOT mandated safety-sensitive employee you must be drug and alcohol free to remain in compliance with the Omnibus Transportation Employee Testing Act and to keep the general public safe so you are not performing your duties under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol.

While those struggling with substance misuse can find help from a variety of health professionals, such as psychologists and primary care physicians, federally regulated employees performing safety-sensitive duties must seek guidance from a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) once they fail a drug and/or alcohol test.

How Does a Qualified DOT SAP Professional Help DOT-Mandated Employees?

A SAP is a Substance Abuse Professional who evaluates employees who have failed DOT alcohol and drug tests. They perform an initial evaluation and then make recommendations to the employee based on their individual substance misuse. The recommendations may include education, treatment, therapy sessions, and the like. They also refer the employee for follow-up drug and/or alcohol testing based on the risk of relapse.

SAPs are not an advocate for anyone; “their function is to protect the public interest in safety by professionally evaluating the employee and recommending appropriate education and/or treatment, follow-up tests, and aftercare.”

The DOT mandates that a SAP must complete specific training and examinations, meet DOT requirements, and hold qualifications including being a licensed or certified physician, psychologist, social worker, employee assistance professional, marriage and family therapist, or drug and alcohol counselor.

Find a SAP Near You Quickly!

When it comes to getting back to work, it’s imperative that an employee finds a qualified DOT SAP provider quickly so they can begin the return to duty process. The longer it takes to find a SAP in your area, the longer you have to wait to return to your safety-sensitive duties.

SAP Referral Services has a complex network of DOT qualified SAP’s nationwide. We’ll connect you with one of them in your area so you can begin the process immediately. Get in touch today to learn more.