Laboratory Confirmation Testing Process

When an “unconfirmed result” or a “not-negative” or a “sample that requires further investigation” is detected during an oral fluid and/or urine screening, follow your workplace drug and alcohol policy; which often means laboratory confirmation.

We recommend the laboratory confirmation method match the initial screening method, for example:

• • Urine Screen → Urine Confirmation
  • Oral Fluid Screen → Oral Fluid Confirmation

Confirmation Kits are Available on our Website

• • Oral Fluid Kit 
  • Urine Kit 

Why Use Laboratory Confirmation Testing?

Confirmation testing is conducted in NATA-accredited laboratories using advanced techniques including Tandem GC-MS/MS (Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry) or Tandem LC-MS/MS (Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry) to accurately identify drugs and their metabolites and their concentrations (levels).

• • This Eliminates False Positives,
  • Confirms Consistency with Prescribed &/or over the Counter Medication and
  • Ensures Fairness in Workplace, Medical, and Legal Settings.

When ordering confirmation testing each drug class tested incurs a separate fee. Clients arrange payment directly with the laboratory.

Steps to Conduct Confirmation Testing

1. Collect the Sample
   Immediately after an unconfirmed result, collect the sample as per the kit instructions and inline with your workplace drug and alcohol policy and procedure.
   
   
2. Complete Chain of Custody
   We recommend only personnel qualified under HLTPAT005 – Collect specimens for drugs of abuse testing may complete and sign the chain of custody form.
   
   The chain of custody form in our kits states – I hereby declare that I have obtained a Statement of Attainment in accordance with the Australian Training Framework or New Zealand Qualification Authority.
   
   
3. Send to a NATA-Accredited Laboratory
   Use the provided envelope and send the sample within 24 hours to an accredited NATA laboratory. Delays can affect result accuracy, please store samples in a temperature-controlled environment.
   
   Find a NATA-accredited laboratory online.
    

4. Receive the Laboratory Report
   Laboratory reports are typically issued within 24 – 48 hours (subject to weekends and public holidays).
   
   Need help interpreting results? Our in-house toxicologist is available for expert support.
   
   

5. Next steps
   Refer to your workplace drug and alcohol policy & procedure for guidance on notifying the donor and any further action.