What is the DISA Return-to-Duty Process?

Navigating the Return-to-Duty (RTD) process can seem overwhelming, especially when dealing with both DOT and non-DOT cases. For employees required to work with a DISA-qualified Substance Abuse Professional (SAP), understanding the process is crucial for ensuring compliance and safely returning to safety-sensitive duties.

This blog will break down the DISA RTD process for both DOT and non-DOT employees and explain how Resilient Return—a DISA and DOT-qualified SAP provider—can help streamline the experience.

What is the DISA Return-to-Duty Process?

The DISA Return-to-Duty (RTD) process is a structured program designed for safety-sensitive employees who have violated drug and alcohol testing regulations. It applies to both:

1. DOT-Regulated Employees: Includes safety-sensitive roles like truck drivers, pilots, and railroad engineers subject to federal DOT regulations.
   
2. Non-DOT Employees: Includes employees not regulated by the DOT but subject to company policies regarding drug and alcohol use (e.g., warehouse staff, construction workers).
   

Non-DOT drug tests can also include hair follicle testing, a highly accurate method of detecting substance use over a longer time frame compared to traditional urine tests.

For both DOT and non-DOT cases, the process starts with an evaluation by a DISA-qualified SAP and follows specific steps to determine whether the employee can safely return to their role.

The DISA RTD Process for DOT Employees

If you’re a DOT-regulated employee, the Return-to-Duty process follows federal guidelines. Here’s what to expect:

1. SAP Initial Evaluation

Meet with a DISA and DOT-qualified SAP for an in-depth video or in-person evaluation. The SAP will assess the employee’s substance use and determine the necessary steps for rehabilitation.

The evaluation focuses on understanding the level of substance use (e.g., abuse, dependence, or addiction).

2. Complete SAP Recommendations

Employees must complete the SAP’s recommended program, which may include treatment, counseling, or educational courses.

Compliance with these recommendations is mandatory to proceed to the next step.

3. Follow-Up SAP Evaluation

After completing the recommended steps, the employee returns to the SAP for a follow-up evaluation to confirm they’ve complied with the program.

4. Return-to-Duty Drug or Alcohol Test

Employees must pass a DOT-monitored RTD test to demonstrate they are substance-free and eligible to resume safety-sensitive duties.

5. Follow-Up Testing Plan

The SAP develops a follow-up testing schedule, including unannounced tests for up to five years to ensure continued compliance.

The DISA RTD Process for Non-DOT Employees

For non-DOT employees, the DISA RTD process is similar but not bound by federal DOT regulations. Instead, it adheres to company or industry policies. Here’s what it involves:

1. SAP Initial Evaluation

Non-DOT employees also meet with a DISA-qualified SAP to assess their substance use.

The SAP determines appropriate steps for rehabilitation based on company policy and the severity of the issue.

2. Complete SAP Recommendations

Just like with DOT cases, employees must follow the SAP’s recommendations, which could include counseling, education, or treatment.

3. Follow-Up Evaluation

The SAP conducts a final evaluation to confirm compliance with the recommended program and readiness to return to work.

4. Return-to-Work Clearance

While non-DOT employees don’t require a federally monitored drug or alcohol test, they may need to pass a company-required test or meet other criteria before resuming their role.

5. Ongoing Monitoring

Employers may implement a follow-up testing or monitoring plan based on company policy.

Why Employers and Employees Should Choose Resilient Return

At Resilient Return, we’re committed to providing a seamless, supportive experience for both DOT and non-DOT cases. Here’s why we’re the right choice:

1. DISA and DOT-Qualified SAPs: Our team includes experts trained to handle both DOT and non-DOT Return-to-Duty cases effectively.
   
2. Convenient Online Evaluations: We offer secure video evaluations, making it easy to begin the process from anywhere.
   
3. Flexible Payment Options: Start your SAP process with just $250 down or take advantage of our Klarna buy now, pay later option.
   
4. Comprehensive Support: From evaluation to follow-up testing, we provide clear guidance every step of the way.
   

Take the First Step Today

Whether you’re a DOT-regulated trucker or a non-DOT employee navigating workplace policies, the DISA Return-to-Duty process is your path back to work. With Resilient Return, you’ll have a trusted partner to guide you through every step, ensuring compliance and a safe return to duty.

Visit our website today to book your SAP evaluation and start your journey to resolving your violation and returning to work confidently.