The Designated Employer Representative (DER) is the person within the workplace responsible for the drug and alcohol compliance program.

The DER’s responsibilities include:

•Acting as the liaison for drug and alcohol testing service agents including TPA, C/TPA, collection sites, labs, MROs, SAPs, and EAP programs

•Staying informed of every test and its result

•Performing the functions necessary according to the results of the tests and taking immediate action, including:

      -Removing employees from safety-sensitive positions

      -Making necessary decisions in the testing and evaluation process

      -Following company policy regarding the consequences of a positive test result or refusal to test

      -Maintain compliance with Department of Transportation (DOT) Rule, 49 CFR Part 40, and agency compliance

      -Maintain a relationship with a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP). As the DER, it is often up to you to make this connection.

Every company covered by the United States Department of Transportation that employs safety sensitive employees must have one or more Designated Employer Representatives (DERs).