Ample Health Services

Specialized Programs

U.S. DOT Return to Duty Process

The U.S. Department of Transportation (US DOT) created a role for Substance Abuse Professionals (SAPs) in addressing employers’ substance abuse concerns about their employees. The role of the SAPs are to evaluate employees who have violated DOT Alcohol and Drug rules, make recommendations to the employer regarding an employee’s need to enroll and complete educational program or treatment, and continuing care and follow-up. The employer is required to enforce the return to duty process and the employee needs to follow these steps if they want to work for any DOT regulated company.

Return to Duty Process

Step 1

The employee who has violated DOT regulations for drug or alcohol testing is removed from safety sensitive duty.

Step 2

The employee is referred to a DOT qualified Substance Abuse Professional (SAP).

Step 3

The SAP performances a clinical evaluation on the employee and recommends treatment and/or education.

Step 4

The employee complies with the treatment(s) and/or education recommended by the SAP.

Step 5

The SAP conducts a follow-up evaluation and determines the employee's eligibility to return to safety sensitive duty.