The DISA SAP Program is an essential, structured pathway for employees who have had a drug or alcohol test violation. Whether you’re a DOT-regulated employee or a non-DOT employee in a safety-sensitive role, the program ensures you meet drug and alcohol regulations and workplace safety standards before returning to duty.
At AACS Counseling, our qualified Substance Abuse Professionals guide you from the initial Evaluation through treatment, a return-to-duty test, and ongoing follow-up testing when required. Ready to get started? Schedule your SAP Evaluation today to ensure compliance .
What is the DISA SAP Program?
The DISA SAP Program is a formal process that helps employees who have tested positive or refused a drug or alcohol test return safely to their workplace. The program centers on assessment, treatment (if needed), education, and monitored testing so employers can maintain a drug-free workplace and comply with relevant regulations.
For official DISA information, see DISA’s testing resources.
The Role of a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP)
A Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) evaluates employees after a drug or alcohol violation, recommends an individualized treatment plan, and determines readiness to return to safety-sensitive duties.
Our team includes both DISA-qualified and DOT-qualified SAPs who:
- Conduct comprehensive SAP Evaluations;
- Develop and oversee treatment plans and education;
- Administer follow-up evaluations and recommend follow-up testing;
- Help ensure ongoing compliance with employer policies and regulatory requirements.
Learn about our SAP Evaluation services and meet our SAP professionals who provide clear guidance .
Who Needs the DISA SAP Program? (DOT vs Non-DOT Employees)
- DOT-regulated employees: Commercial drivers, certain aviation staff, and others covered by federal DOT rules must follow return-to-duty procedures when a violation occurs. See DOT guidance on the Return-to-Duty process.
- Non-DOT employees: Many companies working with DISA or in safety-sensitive industries require a DISA SAP Program as part of their compliance and safety policies.
Both groups rely on SAP determinations to ensure workplace safety and compliance.
DISA Return-to-Duty Process Explained
Initial Evaluation
After a positive or refused test, the first step is an in-depth evaluation. The SAP reviews the violation, interviews the employee, assesses the severity, and utilizes various testing methods and any prior history of substance abuse.
Treatment Plan & Education Requirements
If the SAP determines treatment is needed, they’ll create a personalized treatment plan (counseling, education, inpatient/outpatient programs as necessary). Completion of required education or treatment is mandatory before the next steps.
Follow-Up Evaluation
After treatment, the SAP conducts a follow-up evaluation to determine fitness for duty. The SAP documents readiness and outlines any required follow-up testing or support after a negative test result .
Return-to-Duty Test & Workplace Compliance
A negative RTD test is required before reinstatement to safety-sensitive duties. Employers must enforce strict adherence to policies and ensure safety sensitive employees meet all SAP conditions.
Drug and Alcohol Testing Requirements
Alcohol Test Procedures
Alcohol tests can be required for reasonable suspicion, post-incident, return-to-duty, and other instances defined by employer policy or regulatory rules.
Random Drug Testing & Compliance
Random testing is a core component of many DISA programs. The SAP may recommend ongoing random testing for a period (commonly up to five years, depending on the case) to ensure sustained compliance.
Pre-Employment & Reasonable Suspicion Testing
Employers often require pre-employment drug testing and may require testing when there is reasonable suspicion of impairment or after safety incidents.
Ensuring Workplace Safety & Compliance
Employers must maintain clear policies that protect safety-sensitive operations. Key employer responsibilities include:
- Immediate removal of employees from safety-sensitive duties when a violation occurs;
- Providing access to SAP Evaluation and treatment resources;
- Enforcing drug-free workplace policies and regulatory requirements;
- Maintaining documentation of SAP determinations and RTD testing.
For national substance-use prevention resources, see SAMHSA.
DISA-Qualified SAP vs DOT-Qualified SAP
- DOT SAPs: Work under federal DOT rules for DOT-regulated employees.
- DISA SAPs: Serve employees covered by DISA-related employer programs and other non-DOT compliance structures.
FAQs on the DISA SAP Program
What happens if I fail a return-to-duty test?
Failing a RTD test typically restarts the SAP process; additional evaluation and treatment will be required.
How long does follow-up testing last?
Follow-up testing duration is case-specific; SAPs commonly recommend monitoring for up to five years depending on risk and history.
Do non-DOT employees need a SAP Program?
Yes — many employers in safety-sensitive industries, including commercial truck drivers, require SAP evaluation and monitoring for non-DOT staff.
Is a SAP evaluation mandatory after any violation?
Yes. A positive or refusal on a drug or alcohol test triggers the Evaluation requirement prior to return-to-duty.
How to Schedule a DISA SAP Evaluation with AACS Counseling
If you or an employee has had a drug or alcohol violation, AACS Counseling provides confidential, professionally managed SAP services to help you return to work safely and in compliance with drug and alcohol use regulations . We offer:
- Confidential SAP evaluations with experienced clinicians;
- Tailored treatment plans and education;
- Managed follow-up testing and monitoring;
- Support for both DOT and non-DOT employees.
Schedule your SAP Evaluation or explore our counseling & treatment services to get started.
Review DISA SAP Program – Your Complete Guide to Return-to-Duty.