5 Things to Know About Substance Abuse Professional

Understanding Substance Abuse Professionals

This infographic provides essential information about Substance Abuse Professionals (SAPs) and their critical role within the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) 49 CFR Part 40 protocol and in the workplace, particularly for employees who may be struggling with substance use issues. It outlines five key aspects that employers and employees should know when transitioning from prohibited status to non-prohibited status:

1. Role and Function: SAPs assess employees who have tested positive for drugs or alcohol, determining their fitness to return to work.
2. Qualifications: They must meet specific regulatory qualifications and have clinical experience in substance use diagnosis and treatment.
3. Evaluation Process: SAPs act as the “gatekeepers” of safety, conducting comprehensive evaluations to recommend appropriate treatment or educational resources.
4. Referral and Treatment: The infographic explains how SAPs make follow-up evaluations after initial assessments, ensuring that employees adhere to treatment plans.
5. Return-to-Duty Process: It highlights the steps for employees to regain non-prohibited status after completing the necessary treatment and testing to return to duty.

With statistics indicating that 85% of participants in the American Substance Abuse Professionals (ASAP) programs return to work safely, this infographic is a valuable resource for understanding the crucial support provided by SAPs in maintaining workplace safety and facilitating recovery.