Ready to Start the SAP process & get back to work? Call Cindy (727) 815-6017 to begin the process within the next 48 hrs
A SAP (Substance Abuse Professional) is a DOT/safety sensitive position qualified substance abuse counselor who can complete an assessment to start the process to help you return to duty. A SAP also can do assessments for non DOT positions. Typically the process begins with an assessment. Due to COVID, the DOT has changed the in person assessment requirements until December, 2021. The assessment can be completed in person or by telehealth such as with Zoom.
If a driver is listed in the Clearinghouse, they will need to assign or designate the SAP prior to the assessment. Important to remember once a SAP is assigned, that SAP will be with you during the process. It is very difficult & timely to change a SAP once they are designated.
The assessment process begins with meeting with the SAP who will obtain information about the violation, extent of substance abuse and form a recommendation/treatment plan for you to complete to return to duty. The recommendations can range from substance abuse education, outpatient substance abuse treatment or if the level of care is needed, inpatient or residential substance abuse treatment. The SAP can also recommend attendance at sober support meetings as well as drug and alcohol testing.
Once the assessment is completed the employee or if required, the DER (designated employer representative) will receive a letter advising of the SAP’s recommendations and what steps will need to be completed prior to being eligible for return to duty testing. The SAP is also responsible for updating the DOT Clearinghouse within 24 hours of the assessment and follow up sessions.
Once the employee completes all necessary requirements recommended by the SAP, the SAP & employee will schedule a follow up session to review & re-assess the situation to determine if the employee is ready for return to duty testing by the employer.
Once the employee completes the requirements & after the follow up session, the SAP will update the DOT Clearinghouse with the date of the follow up in which the date will reflect the employee is “RTD testing eligible”.
Another letter will be created that summarizes the steps the employee has taken to comply with the SAP’s recommendations as well as any follow up testing plan. The employee will receive a copy of the follow up plan but not the testing plan. The testing plan goes to the DER or employer only.
The SAP process can be fairly quick & easy but the true length of time of the process depends on the employee’s motivation to complete the SAP’s recommendations.