Substance Abuse Program (SAP)

Product Description

Substance Abuse Program (SAP) Overview

A SAP program is a program created for truck drivers who have failed a DOT drug or alcohol test as well as refusing to take one. This program restores the chances of getting back to work. With the SAP program drivers are getting the education and the treatment that were the primarily cause of failing the test. Drivers get a reassessment of the condition so they will be able to get on the road safely. It is not allowed for drivers to enter treatment on their own, because the DOT requires to go through qualified SAP for the whole program.

FMCSA Test Requirements

The FMCSA with the DOT require all the individuals who are subject to the CDL need to follow alcohol and drug testing rules.

Who is impacted:

• All CDL Drivers transporting with a vehicle weight of 26,001lbs or more
• Vehicles transporting more than 16 passengers
• Hazardous materials
• Federal, State, Local government agencies
• Part-time drivers

CDL drivers are subject to:

• Pre Employment Test – Must be negative prior to receiving a permit to operate on the road.
• Post Accident Test – Whenever drivers are involved in an accident, they must be tested for drug or alcohol.
• Random Test – An unannounced random testing can be implemented to all truck drivers.
  If the driver is notified for random testing, he/she must immediately report to the testing location.
• Reasonable Suspicion – If DOT Trained supervisors suspect signs of drug or alcohol abuse, they can direct drivers to take a test.
  It is based on first hand observation of specific appearance and body behavior.
• Return To Duty – This type of testing is required when the driver has completed the “return-to-duty” process.
• Follow Up Test – They can be prescribed by the SAP professional who signs return to duty report.

The substances that the FMCSA control are:

• Marijuana
• Cocaine
• Opiates
• Amphetamines and Methamphetamines’
• Phencyclidine PCP

What Happens If I Fail a DOT Testing Program?

If the company fails to implement a DOT testing program, the company could end up with costly penalties. Employing a driver who didn`t complete the testing or is not consistent in the testing schedule can result in hefty fines up to $3,174 per driver. In the event of an extreme violation, penalties can exceed $15,040 per driver. Some of the companies may be closed down if the FMCSA considers the carrier as not fit for operations. The DOT also calculates the fleet`s Compliance, Safety and Accountability Scores (CSA).

Additional Reading:

• FMCSA Increases Drug And Alcohol Clearinghouse Fines
• How the FMCSA Clearinghouse Affects You

Why Should I Enroll in a SAP Program?

If you’ve lost your ability to work because of a result on a drug or alcohol test, a SAP program can make all the difference. When you work with a SAP program, you get the education and treatment you need to deal with the issues that caused you to fail the test. Your SAP program ends with a reassessment of your condition that can get you back on the road safely and as quickly as possible. Follow-up testing over the next one to five years will help you maintain your right and ability to keep driving.