Step-by-Step Procedure for Conducting a Workplace Saliva (Oral Fluid) Drug Test

Introduction

Workplace saliva (oral fluid) drug testing is a widely used method for detecting recent drug use and supporting a safe and productive work environment. When conducted correctly, oral fluid testing provides a non-invasive, observable and reliable screening process that can assist employers in identifying and managing alcohol and other drug risks in the workplace.

This procedure outlines the step-by-step process for conducting a workplace saliva drug test in accordance with industry best practice and the requirements of AS/NZS 4760:2019. Following these procedures helps ensure the integrity of the collection process, protects the rights of the donor, and supports accurate and defensible test results.

1. Prepare the Testing Area

Before testing commences:

• Ensure a clean, private room is available for testing.
• Clean the testing surface.
• Place an absorbent underpad on the table.
• Put on disposable gloves.
• Have the following items available:
• Oral fluid drug test devices
• Chain of Custody forms
• Pen
• Biohazard waste bag
• Hand sanitiser
• Workplace Drug & Alcohol Policy
• Copy of AS/NZS 4760:2019 (if available)
• Timer or watch
• Ensure the oral fluid test is within its expiry date and has been stored correctly.

2. Verify the Donor's Identity

• Confirm the donor's identity using photo identification or workplace identification.
• Record the donor's details on the Chain of Custody form.
• Record two forms of identification wherever possible.
• Explain the testing process to the donor.

3. Obtain Consent

• Ask the donor whether they consent to testing.
• Ask the donor to declare any medications, drugs or non-prescription substances taken during the previous month.
• Ensure the donor completes and signs the consent declaration before testing commences.
• Do not proceed if consent is not provided.

4. Confirm Pre-Test Requirements

Prior to collection:

• Ensure the donor has not eaten, drunk, smoked, vaped, chewed gum or placed anything in their mouth within the previous 10 minutes.
• If they have, wait 10 minutes before testing.
• Visually inspect the donor's oral cavity to ensure no water, food or other substances are present.
• This oral cavity inspection is a requirement under AS/NZS 4760:2019.

5. Prepare the Oral Fluid Test

• Confirm the device is at room temperature (15°C–30°C).
• Inspect the pouch for damage.
• Record the following information on the Chain of Custody form:
• Test brand
• Test model
• Lot number
• Expiry date
• Remove the device from the pouch.
• Write the donor's name and identification number on the test device.

6. Collect the Oral Fluid Sample

• Hand the device to the donor.
• Instruct the donor to:
• Place the collection swab under the tongue.
• Wipe around the inside of both cheeks.
• Return the swab beneath the tongue.
• Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the specific device being used.
• Maintain direct observation throughout the collection process.
• Ensure approximately 1–2 mL of saliva is collected.
• Once sufficient saliva has been collected, place the device on the underpad for processing.

7. Allow the Test to Develop

• Observe the saliva migrating through the test strips.
• Test lines (T) generally appear first.
• Control lines (C) should subsequently appear.
• Allow the test to develop fully.
• Interpret results once all control lines are visible or at 10 minutes after collection.

8. Interpret the Results

Negative Result

A negative result occurs when:

• A Control Line (C) is present, and
• A Test Line (T) is present.

Any visible test line, no matter how faint, is considered a negative result.

Non-Negative (Presumptive Positive) Result

A non-negative result occurs when:

• A Control Line (C) is present, and
• The Test Line (T) is absent.

A non-negative result indicates the drug concentration may exceed the screening cut-off level and requires laboratory confirmation.

Invalid Result

An invalid result occurs when:

• No Control Line (C) appears.

The test must be repeated using a new device.

9. Record the Results

• Record all screening results on the Chain of Custody form.
• Record each drug class individually.
• Ensure all fields are completed accurately.
• Sign and date the documentation.

10. Action Negative Results

If all results are negative:

• Inform the donor of the result.
• Permit the donor to return to normal duties (subject to company policy).
• Dispose of the used test device, gloves and underpad in the biohazard waste bag.
• File the Chain of Custody documentation securely.

11. Action Non-Negative Results

If any result is non-negative:

• Inform the donor that the screening result is non-negative.
• Follow the workplace Drug & Alcohol Policy.
• Complete Chain of Custody documentation.
• Collect and package oral fluid specimens for laboratory confirmation.
• Send the same specimen type (oral fluid) to the laboratory.
• Ensure two laboratory specimens are prepared and sealed.
• Arrange transport to a NATA-accredited laboratory for confirmatory testing.
• Follow workplace procedures regarding fitness for work pending laboratory results.

12. Finalise Documentation

• Securely store all records.
• Maintain confidentiality.
• Dispose of biohazard waste appropriately.
• Retain documentation in accordance with workplace procedures and relevant standards.

Important Reminders

✓ Donor must not consume food, drink, cigarettes, vaping products or chewing gum for at least 10 minutes prior to testing.

✓ Check the donor's mouth for liquids before testing.

✓ Any hint of a test line is considered a line.

✓ Interpret results at 10 minutes.

✓ Never interpret results after 1 hour.

✓ Use only in-date testing devices.

✓ Maintain direct observation of the donor throughout specimen collection.

✓ Non-negative results must be confirmed by a NATA-accredited laboratory.