SAP Evaluation and Process
Individuals who have a commercial driver’s license, or who perform certain safety-sensitive duties, are governed by the guidelines of the Department of Transportation. Under Title 49 CFR Part 40 guidelines, a person who tests positive on a drug or alcohol test is required to have a substance abuse evaluation conducted by a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) and to follow the SAP’s treatment recommendations prior to being considered for returning to safety sensitive duties.
The role of the SAP
The
SAP’s fundamental responsibility is to provide a comprehensive face-to-face
assessment and clinical evaluation to determine what level of assistance the
employee needs in resolving problems associated with alcohol use or prohibited
drug use. The SAP then recommends
a course of education and/or treatment with which the employee must demonstrate
successful compliance prior to being considered for returning to DOT
safety-sensitive duties.
The SAP also serves as a referral source to assist the employee’s entry
into an acceptable program.
Prior to the employee’s return to safety-sensitive duties, DOT
regulations require the SAP to perform a follow-up evaluation with the
employee. This evaluation is to
determine whether the employee has demonstrated successful compliance with the
SAP’s original recommendations.
This mandatory evaluation must be completed before the employee can be
considered for return to safety-sensitive functions.
Our Director, Eileen Dewey, is a trained and qualified SAP by DOT guidelines.