Most SAP Evaluations are done to help a DOT driver get back on the road after failing a randomized drug screen, a refusal, or a failed pre-employment urine screen. . There is more than one way to fail these types of screens and the most controversial way is what is called a refusal. Refusal simply means that you did not do the screening at the location and at the time that it was given. Here is an example of what could be considered a refusal.
positive for any substances. Unfortunately, the Clearinghouse has heard every excuse under the sun and simply has a policy that cannot be refuted for any reason. So, what does the process look like in order for you to get back on the road once you have incurred a citation in the clearinghouse? The first step to this process is to select yourself a certified SAP who is in the clearinghouse. You may be asking another fair question: What is the clearinghouse? The clearinghouse is a DOT website and compendia of DOT certified workers. This website holds information for anyone certified by the DOT which includes drivers, SAP’s, etc. When you receive a citation from the clearinghouse for a positive screen/refusal the only way to have this removed is to undergo an SAP Evaluation and complete whatever recommendation is given to you.
Subpart O – Substance Abuse Professionals and the Return-to-Duty Process § 40.285 When is an SAP evaluation required?
(a) As an employee, when you have violated DOT drug and alcohol regulations, you cannot again perform any DOT safety-sensitive duties for any employer until and unless you complete the SAP evaluation, referral, and education/treatment process set forth in this subpart and in applicable DOT agency regulations. The first step in this process is an SAP evaluation.
(b) For purposes of this subpart, a verified positive DOT drug test result, a DOT alcohol test with a result indicating an alcohol concentration of 0.04 or greater, a refusal to test (including by adulterating or substituting a urine specimen), or any other violation of the prohibition on the use of alcohol or drugs under a DOT agency regulation constitutes a DOT drug and alcohol regulation violation.