What is a Substance Abuse Expert?

The role of the SAE is assisting in the determination for fitness and
return-to-duty. The SAE shall evaluate individuals who have violated
the substance abuse provisions of an FFD policy and make
recommendations concerning education, treatment, return to duty, follow-up drug and alcohol testing, and aftercare.

The SAE is not an advocate for the licensee or other entity, or the individual. The SAE’s function is to protect public
health and safety and the common defense and security by professionally evaluating the individual and recommending appropriate education and or treatment, follow-up tests, and aftercare.

Substance Abuse Expert meets the new NRC Requirements.

Any SAE who makes determinations of fitness must be qualified to:

* Demonstrate knowledge of and clinical experience in the diagnosis and treatment of alcohol and controlled-substance abuse disorders;
* Demonstrate knowledge of the SAE function as it relates to the public’s interests in the duties performed by the individuals who are subject to this
subpart; and
* Demonstrate knowledge of Part 26 Fitness for Duty Program and any changes thereto.

SAEs must receive qualification training on the following subjects:

* Background, rationale, and scope of Part 26;
* Key drug testing requirements including specimen collection, laboratory testing, MRO review, and problems in drug testing;
* Key alcohol testing requirements, including specimen collection, the testing process, and problems in alcohol tests;
* SAE qualifications and prohibitions;
* The role of the SAE in making determinations of fitness and the return-to-duty process, including the initial evaluation, referrals for
education and/or treatment, the follow-up evaluation, continuing
treatment recommendations, and the follow-up testing plan;
* Procedures for SAE consultation and communication with licensees or other entities, MROs, and treatment providers;
* Reporting and recordkeeping requirements; and
* Issues that SAEs confront in carrying out their duties.

For more information call 877-644-5411