The Return to Duty Process
The return to duty process can be confusing. Here are the 5 steps in the process:
Step 1: Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) Evaluation
The evaluation consists of online questionnaires and a face-to-face substance abuse evaluation.
Step 2: Complete the Recommendation Course Action
Based on the results of your assessment you will be referred to education, addiction counselling, outpatient addiction treatment, or in-patient addiction treatment. You must complete the recommendations within the assigned time period.
Step 3: Complete a Follow-up SAP Evaluation
The purpose of this face-to-face assessment is to evaluate your compliance with the Recommended Course of Action and determine your eligibility for Return-to-Duty testing.
Step 4: Return to Duty Testing
Only your current or potential US DOT employer can send you for a Return to Duty test. Return to Duty tests must be done under direct observation.
Step 5: Follow-up Drug & Alcohol Testing
Follow-up testing can last up to five years. Each follow-up test must be done under direct observation.
As the SAP we establish a mandatory follow-up testing plan for you. But your DOT employer is responsible for ensuring the follow-up testing is carried out.