Substance Abuse Professional (SAP)

Published: August 5, 2014 | Updated: April 28, 2018

Definition - What does Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) mean?

A substance abuse professional (SAP) is a person that, through various examinations, determines whether an employee has violated any drug and alcohol regulations or not, and further prescribes necessary treatment, follow-up testing, related education and rehabilitation programs. A SAP’s function is to protect public safety by evaluating employees and recommending appropriate corrective measures. Department of transport (DOT), USA has prescribed pre-requisite qualifications and training to qualify as a SAP.

Safeopedia explains Substance Abuse Professional (SAP)

A substance abuse professional (SAP) provides the following services:

Conducts assessment of an employee and his or her rehabilitation program
Provides advice on suitability of an employee’s placement in a job
Prescribes education and treatment prior to returning to duty
Evaluates sufficient clinical progress of an employee to return to duty
Prescribes a follow-up drug testing of an employee returning to work
Advises employees and employers for rehabilitation programs

SAP professional should have a working knowledge of the following:

Clinical diagnosis and treatment experience of substance abuse-related disorders
Knowledge of SAP role related to public safety and employer’s regulations
Knowledge of Department of Transportation (DOT), USA, guidelines as laid down in section 281 (c), Part 40