If you’re facing an FRA drug and alcohol testing violation in Texas, you must contact a DOT qualified Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) as soon as possible.
Rainey Counseling Services is your partner in this return-to-duty process, offering experienced support and guidance for those facing these challenging circumstances.
The Aftermath of FRA Drug and Alcohol Violations
One of the frequent questions we receive is: “What happens if I violate FRA drug and alcohol testing policies?” The consequences are serious, starting with immediate removal from safety-sensitive duties.
The FRA’s Part 219 compliance plan requires railroad employers to prevent and deter drug use and alcohol misuse in the industry.
If you violate these policies, you’ll be facing stringent regulations and processes before you can return to work. That’s where a qualified Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) steps in, guiding you through the return-to-duty process.
Role of the Substance Abuse Professional (SAP)
A DOT-qualified Substance Abuse Professional, or SAP, plays a pivotal role in getting you back to work safely and effectively.
A SAP is your guide and advocate throughout the recovery and return-to-duty process, providing critical services like assessment, treatment recommendation, follow-up evaluations, and compliance monitoring.
Rainey Counseling Services offers DOT SAP evaluations for FRA railway workers in Texas.
The consultation begins with a comprehensive face-to-face assessment to determine the extent of your substance use and to develop a tailored treatment plan.
This isn’t an easy journey, but with an experienced SAP, like Rainey Counseling Services, you’re not walking it alone. You can contact us to schedule a free phone consultation at 817-781-7235.
The Road to Recovery: Steps in the DOT SAP Process
Returning to duty after a drug and alcohol violation involves several steps:
- Initial SAP Evaluation: This evaluation determines the nature and extent of your substance use and sets up an individualized treatment plan.
- Compliance with the SAP’s Recommendations: This can involve education, treatment, follow-up testing, or aftercare.
- Follow-Up Evaluation: After completing the SAP’s recommendations, a follow-up evaluation assesses the effectiveness of the treatment and your readiness to return to safety-sensitive duties.
- Follow-Up Testing Plan: Upon a successful follow-up evaluation, the SAP will develop a testing plan for your employer. This plan may include at least 6 unannounced follow-up drug and/or alcohol tests in the first 12 months.
- Return-to-Duty: Following the SAP’s clearance and your employer’s decision, you can resume performing safety-sensitive functions.
Please note that the length and cost of the SAP process can vary depending on the specific requirements of the treatment plan and the SAP’s professional fees.
Additional Support and Resources
Facing a drug and alcohol violation can feel daunting, but you don’t have to navigate this journey alone. There are additional resources available for railway workers:
- For a comprehensive overview of FRA drug and alcohol regulations, you can refer to the Federal Railroad Administration’s guide.
- For detailed railroad safety and drug testing rules, check out 49 CFR Part 219 and 49 CFR Part 382.
- Railroad companies also offer employee assistance programs (EAPs), such as Union Pacific and BNSF, providing support for employees facing personal difficulties, including drug and alcohol violations.
Schedule Your Free Consultation Today
If you’re facing an FRA drug and alcohol violation in Texas, you must act now and seek guidance as soon as possible.
At Rainey Counseling Services, we’re committed to helping you return to work safely and effectively. Our office is conveniently located in Arlington, TX, serving the DFW Metroplex area.
Schedule your free phone consultation by calling 817-781-7235, or visit our location in Arlington, TX using the Google Maps link on your mobile device.
We’re here to help you overcome this setback and get your career back on track!
What is the FRA drug and alcohol testing plan?
The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) drug and alcohol testing plan is a regulatory measure designed to ensure the safety of the railway transport system. It encompasses a range of tests, including pre-employment, random, post-accident, reasonable suspicion, return-to-duty, and follow-up testing, as stipulated under 49 CFR Part 219.
What does FRA drug test for?
The FRA drug testing program screens for a panel of substances as defined by DOT regulations. This includes marijuana metabolites, cocaine metabolites, amphetamines (including methamphetamine, MDMA), opiates (including codeine, morphine, and 6-AM), and phencyclidine (PCP).
What happens if you fail an FRA drug test?
Failing an FRA drug test can have serious consequences. The employee will be immediately removed from safety-sensitive duties and referred to a DOT SAP. They cannot return to safety-sensitive functions until they’ve completed a return-to-duty process, which includes a DOT SAP evaluation, any recommended treatment, a follow-up evaluation, and a negative result on a return-to-duty drug test.
How Often Does the Federal Railroad Administration Drug Test?
The frequency of FRA drug testing is based on defined criteria. Pre-employment testing is done before an employee assumes a safety-sensitive role. Random testing is conducted throughout the year without prior notice to employees. Post-accident and reasonable suspicion testing are event-based, while return-to-duty and follow-up testing are part of the process following a policy violation.
What Are the FRA Rules for Drug Testing?
The FRA drug testing rules are outlined under 49 CFR Part 219. They cover the circumstances under which testing is required (pre-employment, random, post-accident, reasonable suspicion, return-to-duty, and follow-up), the drugs tested for, the procedures to be followed for testing, and the consequences of violating these rules.
Who to Contact If You Fail FRA Drug Test?
If you fail an FRA drug test, it’s crucial to immediately get in touch with a DOT Qualified Substance Abuse Professional (SAP). They specialize in the DOT SAP Program, providing necessary evaluations and recommendations that adhere to FRA regulations.
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