DOT SAP Process

• DOT SAP Alcohol and Drug Evaluations (Return to Duty) process varies depending on each person?  The actual dot sap evaluations can take anywhere from 1 week to  90 days.   It varies per person, there is no way to tell until the process begins and the initial evaluation takes place.  Sometimes it could be two weeks or up to 90 days.  You are responsible for the treatment fees and Speedy Sap is not affiliated with any of the Treatment programs.  DOT SAP evaluation is just one piece and is done by a Certified DOT SAP ONLY.   
• What DOT SAP Evaluation cost me?  SPEEDY SAP AKA FOOS CARES  charges a fee which includes the initial and follow up appointment.  The treatment is totally separate and does not have any affiliation with SPEEDY SAP.     Also, whether or not your company pays, or you can receive assistance from your state, or if you have insurance.  Again, Treatment Fees are not to be confused with fees for the DOT SAP Process Speedy Sap Fees.  You can use a credit card to pay.
• Why do I have to pay for the DOT SAP Alcohol and Drug Evaluation (Return-to-Duty)?   Speedy Sap has overhead cost and it is a timely process for writing reports, employer letters, testing plan and clinician fees.  Speedy Sap is also responsible for keeping up your file for at least 5 years, and maintaining the FMCSA Clearinghouse information.
• What can I expect? 

1. Immediate response to begin the process.
2. Come to the initial appointment where you will meet your Clinician and we will begin the process and you will receive your treatment recommendation.
3. You will go do what you need to as far as treatment and compliance which is the DOT SAP Alcohol & Drug Evaluations Appointment ( Initial Evaluation). Can take anywhere from 1 week to 90 days.
4. When you are done and completed the DOT SAP Alcohol & Drug Evaluations Recommendation / Treatment Program,  you come back to meet for the follow up appointment (Return-to-Duty Follow-up (RTD))
5. If you have been compliant,  you will be recommended to RTD and take the UA and if you pass it with a negative then you can go back to work.  All the fee must be paid by this point.  If you were not compliant -that is what your letter will state to your employer.  Further your employer will receive an A/D testing schedule of random UA's.  The required information will be placed into the FMCSA Clearinghouse by your  DOT Substance Abuse Professional. Please view site Resources page for additional information on this process and requirements. 

• Can I bring a friend with me to the appointment?  Yes, it is encouraged, this person can speak as a reference for you and it can be helpful to have the support.

!Must Know!

*Employee must remain abstinent from Alcohol and Drugs during Christy L. Foos, LSCSW, LCAC's DOT SAP process. NO EXCEPTIONS!!!

*Employee may not return to work until the entire DOT SAP process has been completed and the DOT SAP gives approval for the Return to Duty alcohol and drug test is done and is negative.  

*The UA/Breathalyzer results must be sent to the DOT Substance Abuse Professional!!

*PRE-EMPLOYMENT EMPLOYER MAY CHOOSE NOT TO RECEIVE PAPERWORK AND TESTING PLAN IF EMPLOYEE IS NOT HIRED.   SO IT WILL BE UP TO THE EMPLOYEE TO ENSURE PAPERWORK FROM DOT SAP IS SENT TO THE NEW EMPLOYER.  THIS IS THE PRE-EMPLOYMENT THAT AN EMPLOYEE MAY HAVE VIOLATION.  IF CURRENTLY EMPLOYED THEN THAT EMPLOYER WILL RECIEVE THE PAPERWORK AND TESTING PLAN.

*Employee must sign a release of information with former/current employer in order for documents to be sent to the next employer. This is regarding the DOT SAP Process paperwork when the program is complete and employee is back to work.

*Employer must follow through with the testing plan  for follow up randoms for employee or they can be fined $11,000 a day for non-compliance and the employee may have to start the DOT SAP process over!!!

*The FMCSA Clearinghouse must be completed for the drivers violation to be resolved.  This means the driver must register and pick a DOT SAP, the MRO has to enter information, and the  Employer has to register and complete employer information.

So, my friend, you find yourself here today wondering what you should do next about this DOT SAP Alcohol and Drug Evaluation program (Return-to-Duty)- Should I or Shouldn't I.  Let me tell you that this is a big deal at this point of your life and you have a serious decision to make.  You do not have to go through this process. That is your choice!  You can choose to smoke pot, drink, or partake in other illicit substances, whatever your vise is, but you cannot do these things and work in a safety sensitive position.  THAT YOU CANNOT DO!

You can sit and wallow in your shame and guilt where  you will stay sick.  Or, you can choose to shake it off, get up, and move forward.  Do the next right thing my friend.  We all make mistakes, because we are human.  But what we do next is the important piece here.  You will receive support and encouragement from Speedy Sap!  Speedy Sap is here to help you be successful and healthy again!  I have seen people get sober and stay sober.  Sometimes slips or relapse is a part of recovery but it does not have to be.  When a slip or relapse happens,  Speedy Sap is here to help you through the process with dignity and respect. We understand the disease of addiction. We will begin the DOT SAP process immediately and assist in finding the right treatment for you and complete the Return to Duty (RTD) Follow Up program to get you back to your career.

This prayer is powerful and appropriate for many different circumstances.  Today it is placed here for you, if you feel that its is helpful.  SPEEDY SAP AKA FOOS CARES wishes you much success through the DOT SAP process.  

~Serenity Prayer~ 

God (Higher Power) grant me the Serenity to accept the things that  I cannot change, 

the courage to change the things I can, 

and the wisdom to know the difference. 

Sincerely,

Christy L. Foos, LSCSW, LCAC

DOT Substance Abuse Professional #20760