A Return-to-Duty (RTD) test is a drug and/or alcohol test required after an employee violates a company's drug and alcohol policy, particularly in safety-sensitive positions.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
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Purpose: The primary purpose of an RTD test is to ensure that an employee is no longer using prohibited substances and is fit to return to their safety-sensitive duties. It verifies the employee's compliance with company policy and relevant regulations after a violation.
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Trigger: An RTD test is typically required when an employee:
- Tests positive for drugs or alcohol.
- Refuses to submit to a drug or alcohol test.
- Otherwise violates the employer's drug and alcohol policy (e.g., possessing drugs or alcohol at work).
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Context: RTD tests are particularly crucial in industries where employee impairment could have severe consequences, such as:
- Transportation (e.g., trucking, aviation, rail)
- Oil and Gas
- Construction
- Manufacturing
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Process: After a policy violation, the employee is typically removed from their safety-sensitive duties. Before they can return, they must:
- Undergo a substance abuse evaluation by a qualified Substance Abuse Professional (SAP).
- Comply with the SAP's recommendations for treatment and/or education.
- Pass the Return-to-Duty test.
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Follow-up Testing: Passing the RTD test is not the end of the process. The employee is usually subject to follow-up testing for a period determined by the SAP (typically lasting from 12 months to 5 years). These follow-up tests are unannounced and help ensure continued compliance.
In summary, the Return-to-Duty test is a critical step in ensuring workplace safety following a drug or alcohol policy violation, confirming that the employee is no longer impaired and is safe to resume their duties.
