The DISA Return to Duty Program (DISA RTD) is a structured process designed to help employees who have violated their company policy regarding drug and alcohol testing return to safety-sensitive duties safely and compliantly.
This return to duty process is especially critical in regulated industries such as transportation, oil and gas, construction, and utilities — where employee performance in safety sensitive roles directly impacts public safety.
In this guide, we’ll break down how the DISA RTD process works, what steps are required, and how both employees and employers can ensure compliance with DOT and non-DOT rules.
What Is the DISA Return to Duty Program?
The DISA return to duty program applies when an employee has a drug or alcohol violation and needs to complete a structured program before being cleared to work again.
Common violations include in DOT Drug test:
- A positive drug or alcohol test result
- A refusal to take a required drug or alcohol test
- Violation of company alcohol policies or other safety rules
Once a violation occurs, the employee must begin the return to duty process by meeting with a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP).
When Does the Return to Duty Process Apply?
Employees are typically removed from safety-sensitive positions immediately after:
- Failing a DOT drug test
- Refusing a DOT or non-DOT alcohol test
- Violating their employer’s drug and alcohol use policy
⚠️ Immediate removal from duties is mandatory for both DOT-regulated and non-DOT employees.
Step-by-Step DISA RTD Process
1. SAP Referral and Initial Evaluation
The employee must be referred to a DISA-qualified Substance Abuse Professional or a SAP listed through SAP referral services.
During the initial evaluation, the SAP conducts a face-to-face assessment to determine the:
- Severity of the substance use or violation
- Need for treatment programs or education
- Readiness to enter a follow up testing plan
2. Completing the SAP-Recommended Treatment Plan
Treatment may include:
- Outpatient or inpatient substance abuse counseling
- Educational programs
- Ongoing substance use monitoring
Employees must successfully complete the treatment plan to move forward.
3. Follow-Up Evaluation by the SAP
After treatment, the employee attends a follow up evaluation to confirm compliance.
If the SAP determines the employee has met all requirements, they can proceed to the return to duty test phase.
4. Return to Duty Test
The return to duty test is a directly observed drug and/or alcohol test.
- Must result in a negative test result
- Conducted by a certified lab
- Required for return to work clearance
5. Follow-Up Testing Plan
Once cleared, the SAP determines a follow up testing plan, which includes:
- At least 6 directly observed tests within 12 months
- Testing can extend up to five years
- Separate from random testing programs
This ensures ongoing monitoring and reinforces accountability.
What Role Does DISA Play?
As a Third Party Administrator (TPA), DISA:
- Connects employees with qualified SAPs
- Manages internal approval of return-to-duty milestones
- Coordinates drug and alcohol testing
- Helps employers meet regulatory requirements
DISA’s compliance platform streamlines the entire process for DOT-regulated employees and non-DOT cases alike.
Common Industries That Use DISA RTD
The DISA return to duty program is used across various high-risk roles:
- Truck drivers
- Oilfield technicians
- Construction workers
- Utility contractors
- DOT-regulated and non-DOT employees
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ What’s the difference between an RTD test and a pre-employment test?
RTD tests are required after a violation and must be directly observed.
Pre-employment tests are standard screening tools before job entry or re-entry after leave.
❓ Do RTD and follow-up tests replace random testing?
No. Follow-up tests are in addition to random testing for all safety sensitive employees.
❓ Are non-DOT employees also required to follow this process?
Yes. While the DOT governs the process for regulated roles, many employers apply similar policies for non-DOT employees to maintain a substance-free workplace.
❓ How long does follow-up testing last?
The follow up testing plan lasts at least 12 months, but can extend up to five years, depending on the SAP’s recommendation.
Final Thoughts: Why the DISA Return to Duty Program Matters
The DISA RTD process is critical in upholding workplace safety and ensuring that employees who violate drug and alcohol testing policies have clear guidance on their path to return.
By working with a DOT-qualified SAP, completing treatment, passing tests, and adhering to follow up testing, employees demonstrate accountability and employers stay compliant.
For support with SAP referrals or to begin your DISA return to duty process, contact a DISA representative or login to your employer portal.