How to Use an Oral Fluid Drug Test

Supporting Safe, Accurate, and Compliant Workplace Testing​

Oral fluid drug testing is a fast, non-invasive method for detecting recent drug use. This guide outlines the general steps involved in using an oral fluid drug test device. However, it is not a substitute for formal training.

To ensure full competency and compliance, we strongly recommend completing either our Nationally Recognised or Certified Operator Training. If you are performing drug testing that includes confirmatory procedures, it is a legal requirement to complete HLTPAT005 – Collect Specimens for Drugs of Abuse Testing, which covers correct procedures for preparing and packaging specimens for laboratory analysis.

Understand the Device and Policy Context

Before conducting any test, make sure you:

• • Are familiar with your workplace’s drug and alcohol policy.
  • Understand which substances are being tested.
  • Have access to the correct testing equipment.
  • Have completed, the required training qualification.

Prepare for Testing

• • Ensure the donor has not consumed food, drink, or smoked for at least 15 minutes prior to testing. This helps avoid false positives from what you have recently consumed.
  • Confirm the test kit is within its expiry date and has been stored correctly.
  • Wear gloves and prepare a clean, well-lit testing area.

Collect the Sample

• • Open the test kit according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Ask the donor to place the collection pad in their mouth between the cheek and gum or under the tongue.
  • Allow the pad to absorb oral fluid for the recommended duration (usually 2–3 minutes) until the indicator confirms sufficient sample collection.

Activate and Read the Test

• • Insert the sample pad into the test device as directed.
  • Wait the specified time (usually a few minutes) for the results to appear.
  • Interpret the results according to the device’s instructions—this may involve visible lines or a digital display (Druglizer LE5 device).

⚠️ Important: An unconfirmed result is not a confirmed positive. Confirmatory laboratory testing must follow in accordance with your workplace policy.

Record and Respond

• • Document the result, time, and any relevant observations.
  • Follow your workplace’s chain-of-custody and reporting procedures.
  • If required, initiate confirmatory testing and notify the appropriate personnel.

Why Certified Training Matters

While this overview provides a basic understanding, only certified and nationally recognised training ensures:

• • Full compliance with National Standards, industry regulations, and WHS legislation
  • Proper handling of chain-of-custody procedures
  • Accurate interpretation of results
  • Confidence in managing challenging or sensitive situations

Becoming Certified

Gain the skills and certification required for professional testing. Explore our training options:

• • Certified Operator Training – Oral Detect
  • Certified Operator Training – Druglizer LE5
  • HLTPAT005 – Collect Specimens for Drugs of Abuse Testing