SAP Evaluation

In the event an employee tests positive for alcohol or drugs, DOT requires that the employer supply him or her with information on the services of a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) who can provide evaluation and assessment.

DOT regulations require that employees who have engaged in prohibited alcohol- or drug-related conduct be evaluated be a qualified SAP.  If the SAP determines that the employee needs treatment or rehabilitation for substance abuse, the employee must comply with the recommended intervention before he or she may return to safety-sensitive duties.  Company policy determines who pays the costs associated with the evaluation and treatment.

If an employer allows an employee to return to duty following a positive drug test or a violation of the company's alcohol misuse policy, the employee must undergo an evaluation by a SAP, complete any recommended treatment, pass a return-to-duty alcohol and/or drug test, and enter a follow-up program of at least six unannounced tests in the first twelve (12) months after returning to duty.  The decision about the employee's eligibility to return to duty is always made by the employer in accordance with published rules.

Role of the Substance Abuse Professional

DOT regulations define the substance Abuse Professional (SAP) as a licensed physician (medical doctor or doctor of osteopathy), a licensed or certified psychologist, a licensed or certified social worker, or a licensed or certified employee assistance professional.  Also included in the definition are alcohol and drug abuse counselors certified by the National Association of Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counselors (NAADAC) Certification Reciprocity Consortium (IC&RC), national organizations that impose qualification standards for treatment of alcohol-related disorders.  All must have demonstrated knowledge of and clinical experience in the diagnosis and treatment of substance abuse-related disorders.  Degrees and certificates alone do not confer this knowledge.

Like medical review officers, SAPs are specialized professionals who play a key role in the return-to-duty process, which has important safety implications.  In addition to their professional qualifications, they need to be keenly aware of their role in implementing DOT drug and alcohol testing rules.

Ms. McNeely has been working with the DOT as a SAP for approximately 4 years (certificate # 11597).  She believes that Substance Abuse Professional fees are often inflated; therefore, her fees are more than reasonable.  She demonstrates a dedication to assisting drivers to get back on the road.