Substance abuse among Department of Transportation (DOT) professionals is a critical concern for road safety. Impaired driving abilities due to substance or alcohol use can lead to increased accidents, injuries, and fatalities. It cannot be understated how important it is for the DOT to maintain stringent rules and regulations on alcohol and substance use.
To grasp the risk of substance and alcohol on driving, let us take a look at some facts about the risks and one of the main ways the DOT tackles the issue.
Effects of Substance and Alcohol Abuse on Driving Abilities
Driving performance can be significantly affected by substance abuse, which includes the inappropriate use of alcohol, prescription drugs, and illegal substances. These impacts can have life-changing or even deadly consequences that nobody should have to face. Key effects include:
- Impaired Judgment and Decision-Making: Alcohol and drugs impair cognitive functions, leading to risky behaviors such as speeding, aggressive driving, and poor decision-making in critical situations.
- Reduced Coordination and Motor Skills: Substances like alcohol, marijuana, and certain prescription medications impair motor skills and hand-eye coordination, essential for safe driving.
- Delayed Reaction Times: Alcohol and drugs slow reaction times, which makes it difficult for drivers to respond promptly to sudden changes or emergencies on the road.
- Drowsiness and Fatigue: Many substances cause drowsiness, which increases the likelihood of falling asleep while manning a vehicle or experiencing microsleeps.
The Role of SAP Programs
Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) programs are crucial for addressing substance abuse within the DOT workforce. These programs involve a comprehensive process designed to facilitate the rehabilitation of employees who have violated DOT drug and alcohol regulations, ensuring that they are fit to return to duty. The initial phase of the program encompasses thorough evaluation and treatment, while the subsequent stages focus on ongoing monitoring and testing. This all-encompassing approach allows SAP programs to play an integral role in maintaining the safety of DOT employees and the general public, upholding the standard of care for all professionals under the DOT umbrella.
By encompassing evaluation, treatment, and sustained monitoring, SAP programs provide a structured framework for supporting individuals in their recovery journey while also safeguarding the welfare of their colleagues and the public. SAP programs thus stand as a vital component to ensuring a safe and secure work environment while also offering support and resources for individuals seeking to overcome substance abuse challenges.
Finding a Qualified DOT SAP
If you or an employee recently failed or refused a drug and alcohol test, you were most likely removed from your safety-sensitive duties and need to start the return-to-duty process. One of the first steps of that process is finding a SAP list and getting in touch with a qualified DOT SAP.
This is where a service like ASAP (American Substance Abuse Professionals) can help you. Not all SAPs are DOT qualified. The ASAP Credentialing Team ensures documentation of updated licensure/certification, qualification training, examination and continuing education for all ASAP providers.
A case manager at ASAP connects employees with the SAP services they need to ensure they can complete their RTD process and perform their duties safely. Our trusted SAPs are continuously reviewed to ensure they have the necessary credentials to perform substance abuse care to DOT standards.