The term “Substance abuse professional” (SAP) refers to a specialist approved by the Department of Transportation (DOT) to perform substance abuse evaluations for employees who test positive for alcohol or drugs.
If you have tested positive while working in a safety-sensitive DOT position you will be mandated to meet with a SAP for a substance abuse evaluation, referral and treatment. You will not be able to perform safety-sensitive duties until you complete the return-to-duty process This process is as follows:
Your employer will refer you to a Substance Abuse Professional, or you can find one yourself by calling the National Substance Abuse Professionals Network (1-800-879-6428). In some cases an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) counselor serves as the designated SAP.
You will meet with the SAP for a face-to-face evaluation, during which she or he will determine what level of treatment you need and refer you to either an inpatient or outpatient program. Payment arrangements are decided by you and your employer, and may be determined by employer policies, current management-labor agreements, or health care benefits.
Once you have completed the recommended education or treatment plan you will meet with the SAP for a follow-up evaluation to determine if you’ve successfully complied with the treatment recommendations provided in the initial evaluation. In addition to the face-to-face interview with you, this evaluation is based on written reports from and communication with the treatment provider(s).
At this point the Substance Abuse Professional will assess whether or not you’ve made significant clinical progress to return to duty, and inform your employer of the results of the evaluation. The SAP will also present your employer with a follow-up drug and/or alcohol testing plan, which may last for up to 60 months (five years), as well as recommendations for continuing education and/or treatment.
It’s important to note the following about the Substance Abuse Professional:
1) The SAP is not an advocate for the employer or the employee. His or her function is to protect the public interest in safety.
2) The SAP’s recommendations are final and you must comply with them. You will not be allowed to get a second opinion or to request a different SAP following the initial evaluation.