DOT SAP Evaluation & Return-to-Duty Process in Massachusetts
If you have received a DOT drug or alcohol violation, you must complete the required Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) process before you can become eligible to return to safety-sensitive duties.
HM Behavioral Health provides DOT SAP evaluations for employees throughout Massachusetts. Evaluations are completed by Tommy McCann, MA, LADC I, CEAP, a DOT-qualified Substance Abuse Professional with extensive experience completing federal SAP evaluations and helping employees navigate the return-to-duty process.
The SAP process includes an initial evaluation, completion of the SAP's treatment and/or education recommendations, a follow-up evaluation, and determination of eligibility to proceed with the DOT return-to-duty test.
If you have been told you need a SAP evaluation and are unsure what to do next, contact HM Behavioral Health to get started.
Need to Complete the DOT SAP Process?
If you have a DOT drug or alcohol violation and need a qualified SAP, you can contact HM Behavioral Health directly to begin the process.
DOT-Qualified SAP: Tommy McCann, MA, LADC I, CEAP
Serving: DOT-regulated employees throughout Massachusetts
Process: Initial SAP Evaluation → Recommendations → Follow-Up Evaluation → Return-to-Duty Eligibility
What Happens During the DOT SAP Process?
1. Initial Evaluation
The process begins with an evaluation with a DOT-qualified Substance Abuse Professional. During the initial SAP evaluation, Tommy will review the circumstances surrounding the DOT violation along with relevant substance use, medical, mental health, treatment, and recovery history. Following the evaluation, the SAP determines what education and/or treatment must be completed before you can move forward in the return-to-duty process.
2. Treatment and/or Education Recommendation
Following the initial evaluation, the SAP provides an individualized recommendation for education and/or treatment based on the evaluation and DOT requirements. The required recommendation will depend on the individual's circumstances and may include education, outpatient treatment, or another appropriate level of care. The employee must successfully complete the SAP's recommendation before moving on to the follow-up evaluation.
3. Follow-up Evaluation
After the required education and/or treatment has been completed, you will meet with the SAP again for a follow-up evaluation. The SAP reviews your compliance with the recommendation and determines whether you have successfully completed the requirements necessary to become eligible for a DOT return-to-duty test. Becoming eligible for the return-to-duty test does not automatically return you to safety-sensitive work. The required return-to-duty test must also be completed with a verified negative result before safety-sensitive duties can resume.
4. Periodic Follow-up Testing Plan
When appropriate, the SAP establishes a follow-up testing plan that is provided to the employer or designated employer representative. DOT follow-up testing includes a minimum of six unannounced tests during the first 12 months. Additional follow-up testing may be required for up to five years based on the SAP's determination.
Your DOT-Qualified Substance Abuse Professional
Tommy McCann, MA, LADC I, CEAP
Tommy McCann is a DOT-qualified Substance Abuse Professional (SAP), independently licensed alcohol and drug counselor, Certified Employee Assistance Professional, and experienced addiction clinician.
Tommy has completed hundreds of federal SAP evaluations and has extensive experience helping DOT-regulated employees navigate the evaluation, recommendation, follow-up, and return-to-duty process. He also has experience consulting with employers and treatment providers regarding SAP requirements, compliance, and clinical considerations.
His goal is to make the process clear and straightforward so employees understand what is required of them and what steps they need to complete to move forward.
