What is the Return to Duty process?

Return to Duty process

The process varies by company and industry specifics, but here are the specific steps to take after a DOT-required positive test:

Immediately relieve employees of safety-sensitive functions (i.e., driving) – employees must be notified to stop driving as soon as it is safe to do so, even on roads in another state.

Initial evaluation by a DOT-qualified Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) - The SAP will conduct an in-person interview to assess the employee's specific situation and history to determine the treatment regimen or program that the employee must complete.

Education and Treatment Plan - SAP will develop a treatment plan for the employee during the initial interview.



Follow-up evaluation by SAP - Once the employee has completed their assigned program, they must meet with their assigned SAP, and they will then determine if the employee can take the RTD test and return to duty again.

Follow-up Test Schedule - The Designated Employer Representative (DER) will receive a follow-up test schedule from SAP.

Drug Testing - This is when the RTD is scheduled. If the employee has successfully completed an SAP-recommended treatment plan or programs, their assigned SAP can recommend to the DER that the employee is eligible for RTD testing. Once a negative test result is received, the employee can resume work again.

How many follow-up tests are required?

Policies may vary by company; however, DOT requires SAP to schedule at least six tests over a 12-month period. This process can last up to five years, and each follow-up test must be under direct observation.

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