The purpose of this flyer is two-fold:
1) Gives instruction to the employee on how to meet the requirements of the DOT Return to Duty process 2) Meets the employer’s requirement to provide the driver with a list of qualified SAPs
My driver just tested positive in a DOT required drug/alcohol test. What am I obligated to do?
First, you must remove the driver from his/her safety sensitive position. Second, you must provide them with a list of qualified Substance Abuse Professionals (SAP). Providing the driver with this flyer meets your obligation in this process. The employee cannot return to a safety sensitive position until the entire DOT Return to Duty process is completed.
What is a SAP?
A Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) is an addiction professional with knowledge and clinical experience in the diagnosis and treatment of substance related disorders who has also met additional DOT requirements.
What is the function of the SAP?
The function of the SAP is to protect the public interest by acting as the gatekeeper for the Department of Transportation’s Return to Duty process. The SAP does not represent the driver or the employer.
Who is eligible to qualify as a SAP?
The SAP must be a M.D., D.O. licensed social worker, a licensed psychologist, a Certified Employee Assistance Professional (CEAP) or an alcohol and drug abuse counselor certified by the International Certification Reciprocity Consortium/Alcohol and other Drug Abuse (ICRC).
What qualifies a professional to be a SAP?
In order to meet the DOT qualifications and requirements, the employer must ensure that the SAP can document knowledge and clinical experience in the diagnosis and treatment of substance abuse disorders. In addition, the SAP must have demonstrated through training and examination, a thorough understanding of DOT regulations. It is important to note that degrees and certifications alone do not meet these requirements.
Who is responsible for paying for the services of the SAP?
This is decided between you and your employee; however, whatever the policy is, it should be consistently applied to every employee and it should be written in your policy and procedure manual.
If I terminate the employee, do I still have to refer them to a SAP?
The rules require the employer to provide the employee with a list of qualified SAPs, regardless of whether or not their employment is continued. Your requirement is met by providing the driver with this brochure.
Can an employee continue to do safety sensitive work prior to completing the SAP Return to Duty process?
Any DOT employer is prohibited from returning the employee to safety sensitive duties prior to the completion of all requirements of the return to duty process. Provisions for severe fines against the employer and/or employee exist for violations of these requirements.

What does the Return to Duty process involve?
1. The employer provides the employee with a list of qualified SAPs (this brochure).
2. The employee has a face-to-face evaluation with the SAP and is given a referral to a separate resource who provides the education and/or treatment recommended by the SAP.
3. The results of the evaluation are given to the employer in letter form.
4. Once the employee completes all recommended education and/or treatment, he returns to the SAP for a follow-up evaluation to determine participation, progress and compliance with all recommendations.
5. The SAP provides a letter documenting compliance and outlining the number and frequency of the required follow-up testing.
After the employee returns to work, how do I know when to do follow-up testing?
The SAP will provide the employer with a plan for follow-up testing,including a recommended number and frequency in which to test. (Example: four tests in the first six months and two in the final six months for the first year.) The employer is responsible for the timing of the tests. Follow-up testing does not replace the normal DOT required random testing. Testing could last one to five years.
How long does the Return to Duty process take?
Each case is different, and length of education/treatment may vary. Satisfactory completion requires measurable progress, not just attendance. Therefore, length of time is affected by the employee’s active participation. Keep in mind that the SAP is required to place protecting the public’s interest above the employee’s desire to return to safety sensitive duty.

• Employee Assistance Certification Commission #030157

• SAP training and examination through NAADAC (National Association of Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselors) #10020

• Over 25 years experience in evaluation and treatment of substance abuse and dependence.

• Certified Medical Review Officer Assistant. Medical Review Officer Certification Council (MROCC) #06-1568

• Over 10 years experience as Assistant to Medical Review Officer (MRO), including completion of Physicians MRO Training course through the American Association of Medical Review Officers (AAMRO)

• Certified Behavioral Health Care Technician (Florida Certification Board) #1807

• Certified Breath Alcohol Technician (BAT)

Phone:863-287-7887 • Fax: 863-294-5533
Email:steveenzor@verizon.net