Testing Procedures (Urine)

Testing Procedures (Urine)

While anti-doping regulations may vary from sport to sport, the drug testing procedures generally follow the same basic principles and are the same for in competition and out of competition testing and the procedures in other countries usually follow the same basic principles.

The sample collection equipment that is used in other countries may vary. Available equipment includes Envopak, Versapak and Bereg Kit 94 and is usually based on the same basic principles whereby the equipment should be clean and secure in tamper resistant or tamper evident packaging, prior to being opened by the athlete; the bottles and containers should have a unique identification system and be strong to provide secure storage and transportation of the sample; lastly, the bottles and containers should also have a unique sealing system that is both tamper resistant and tamper evident.

The drug-testing procedures are designed to protect the integrity of the sampling process and ensure that it is a system that has athlete confidence. The athlete should always know their rights and responsibilities under the governing bodies rules and regulations.

A quick guide to testing procedures (urine)

Roll your mouse over the images for a full explanation.

1. Notification of a drug test	2. Reporting for Testing	3. Selecting a collection vessel
4. Providing a sample under supervision	5. Selecting a sampling kit	6. Dividing and sealing the sample
7. Checking the seal of the bottles	8. Testing the suitability of the sample	9.Recording the information
10. Certifying the information

1. A UK Sport Doping Control Officer (DCO) or chaperone will notify you in writing that you have been selected for a drug test. You will be asked to sign the form to acknowledge that you have been advised of your rights and have received the notice.
2. A chaperone will accompany you to the Doping Control Stations where sealed drinks should be provided by the governing body responsible for the event.
3. When you are ready to provide a sample you will be asked to select a sealed collection vessel from a choice of vessels and go to the toilet area with the DCO.
4. You are required to provide a urine sample under direct supervision of the DCO. You must remove sufficient clothing so that the DCO can directly observe you providing the sample.
5. On your return to the Doping Control Station you will be asked to select a sealed urine sampling kit. You should check that the security seal is intact and if you are satisfied open the kit.
6. You will then be asked to divide your sample between the A and B bottles. A small amount of urine should be left in the collection vessel so that the DCO can check the sample for pH and specific gravity.
7. Next you will be invited to check that the two bottles are tightly sealed and that there is no leakage.
8. The DCO will test the suitability of the sample by measuring the pH and specific gravity.
9. The DCO will record the sample numbers on the Sample Collection Form. You will also be invited to declare any medications, substances or supplements that you have taken at least seven days prior to testing.
10. The DCO will ask you to check the information on the Sample Collection Form and if you are satisfied it is accurate, to sign the form. The DCO will also check the information and sign the form.

For more detailed information on testing procedures, including high visibility documents and additional information for athletes with a disability, please visit the factsheets page on our 100% Me website.