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A safety-sensitive function is work that a DOT agency rule defines as affecting public safety. Each agency has its own list.

For FMCSA, it covers all the time from when a CDL driver begins work, or must be ready to work, until relieved from work (49 CFR 382.107), including:

• Waiting to be dispatched.
• Inspecting, servicing, or conditioning the CMV.
• Driving, or being at the controls of, a CMV.
• Being in or on a CMV, except resting in a sleeper berth.
• Loading or unloading, or supervising loading or unloading.
• Attending a disabled vehicle.

Random alcohol tests may be conducted only just before, during, or just after performing safety-sensitive functions.