DOT Supervisor Training

Reasonable Suspicion Supervisor Training

Reasonable Suspicion Supervisor Training requirement specifies that supervisors need to know what to look for and what to do if someone seems unfit for duty.  Supervisors must take action knowing they are protecting everyone. Supervisors will know not only how and when to do reasonable suspicion/cause testing but why they need to do it.

Purpose

This program is intended to inform designated transit personnel on the dos and don’ts, why’s and how’s in making fair and reliable reasonable suspicion drug and alcohol testing referrals of covered employees performing safety-sensitive job functions.

Target Audience

This program is intended for front line supervisors responsible for making reasonable suspicion drug/alcohol testing referrals of employees who perform safety-sensitive job functions for transit agencies that receive federal funding under Sections 5309, 5307, and 5311 of Chapter 53 of Title 49 of the U.S. Code.

Scope and Methodologies

The training package consists of a four-segment video and this trainee’s guide.

Duration of Training

The FTA regulations require 60 minutes of training on the signs and symptoms of alcohol misuse, and 60 minutes on the signs and symptoms of prohibited drug use. This program satisfies the basic FTA requirement (It is also recommended that an additional 30 minutes be anticipated to conduct the overview and wrap-up sessions). However, some transit agencies deem the supervisor’s ability to make a reasonable suspicion determination so critical to the success of their substance abuse management program, that they devote a full day or more to supervisory training.