What Happens in a Drug Test?

All athletes have rights and responsibilities relating to Drug Testing in Sport.

• Did you know you have the right to:Request to see the tester's ID card - if the tester does not have their ID card, you have the right to refuse testing, however ensure you complete paperwork with the tester to this effect
• Bring a representative to accompany you during the sample collection
• Bring an interpreter to accompany you during the sample collection (if necessary)
• Request a delay in reporting to the Doping Control Station (DCS) for a valid reason
• For in-competition testing valid reasons include: Participation in a victory ceremony; Fulfilment of media commitments; Competing in further Competitions; Performing a warm down; Obtaining necessary medical treatment; Locating a representative and/or interpreter; Obtaining photo identification; or Any other exceptional circumstances which may be justified, and which shall be documented.
• For out-of-competition testing valid reasons include: Locating a representative; Completing a training session; Receiving necessary medical treatment; Obtaining photo identification; Any other exceptional circumstances which can be justified, and which shall be documented.
• Be offered a choice of sample collection equipment including sample collection vessel and kits
• Request information regarding the sample collection procedure
• Request modifications to the sample collection procedure if required, i.e. for athletes under the age of 18 or for athletes with a disability
• Record comments about the sample collection procedure on the Doping Control Form
• Receive copies of all documentation you have signed

You also have responsibilities relating to Drug Testing in Sport:

You must stay within sight of a tester at all times until you have provided your sample and are permitted to leave

• Comply with the sample collection procedures and that the first sample you provide, after notification, is at the Doping Control Station and that you retain control of your urine sample until it is securely sealed
• You should avoid excessive re-hydration as a there is a requirement to produce a sample with a suitable Specific Gravity for analysis
• Report immediately for a test unless there is valid reason for a delay
• You should produce identification such as a Driving Licence, Passport, Garda Age Card, NGB Licence Card etc
• You must co-operate with the testers during the sample collection procedure
• If you choose to consume food or fluids prior to providing a sample it is at your own risk

Will a minor be tested?

The decision to test athletes is not based on age; it is based on the level that the athlete is competing at. Minors competing at national level may be tested. When aminor is providing a sample they have the right to request their representative to be present in the toilet area. The representative will not witness the passing of the sample but are present to watch the actions of the Chaperone/DCO who is witnessing the sample. The athlete's consent is required before their representative may enter the toilet area. If the athlete does not wish to bring their representative, the Event Contact Person or the National Children's Officer for the National Governing Body will be requested to act as a representative for the athlete.

What if I refuse to be tested?

Although you are entitled to refuse to provide a sample please bear in mind that a refusal might be treated as a doping violation by your NGB. The tester will advise you of the consequences of failing to comply with sample collection procedures. The sanction for refusal is a period of ineligibility of up to 2 years from sport. For more information on sanctions, read the Consequences section of "Results Management" or read Article 7 of the Irish Anti-Doping Rules.

Testing by Authorities other than the Irish Sports Council

Testing worldwide should follow the principles of these sample collection procedures although there may be slight variations in the procedures, sample collection procedures or paperwork used by different anti-doping organisations, which will not affect the integrity of the process so long as the International Standard for testing is being followed. National teams should as much as possible use the sample athlete support personnel as athlete representatives in the doping control station so that there can be effective communication back to other team members of the particular doping control procedures being used, and why procedures common in other programs are not. If any issues arise during the testing procedures, please write your comments on the Doping Control Form at the time of testing.

Role of your National Governing Body when testing

When testing takes place at a competition, the Anti-Doping Officer for the sport (or someone they delegate with the responsbility) acts as the Event Contact Person. Essentially the role of this person is to liaise and assist drug testers from the Irish Sports Council to ensure that drug testing takes place discreetly and efficiently. For more information on the role of the Event Contact Person, read the Event Contact Person Handbook

Want to find out more?

Watch the WADA Doping Video
Have a look at the Real Winner e-learning programme
Download and read the Sample Collection Procedures leaflet

Downloads

Sample Collection Procedures - Urine

WADA International Standard for Testing 2009

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