Testing Procedure
The primary goal of testing is to safeguard clean athletes by detecting and deterring doping practices.
Any athlete under the jurisdiction of the CIPS or their National Anti-Doping Organization (NADO) may be subject to testing at any time, with no prior notice this includes both in competition and out of competition periods. Testing may involve the collection of urine, venous blood, or Dried Blood Spot (DBS) samples.
Sample Collection Process
1. Athlete Selection
Testing can occur anytime, anywhere, with athletes randomly or strategically selected.
2. Notification
A Doping Control Officer (DCO) or a chaperone will inform the athlete of their selection, outlining their rights and responsibilities.
3. Reporting
The athlete must proceed to the Doping Control Station promptly. A delay may be permitted for valid reasons, at the DCO’s discretion.
4. Equipment Selection
The athlete chooses from individually sealed sample collection kits. They must inspect and verify the integrity and code numbers on the equipment.
Urine Sample Collection
• Observation: The sample must be provided under the direct supervision of a DCO or chaperone of the same gender.
• Volume: A minimum of 90mL is required. If the initial sample is insufficient, the athlete will be asked to provide more.
• Splitting the Sample: The sample is divided between an A and B bottle.
• Sealing: The athlete seals both bottles following the DCO’s instructions.
• Specific Gravity Test: The DCO checks the urine concentration. If too dilute, additional samples may be needed.
Blood Sample Collection
• The athlete must rest seated for at least 10 minutes prior to the procedure (for Athlete Biological Passport samples).
• A Blood Collection Officer (BCO) will draw blood from the non-dominant arm, using a tourniquet and sterile technique.
• Blood is collected into Vacutainer tubes, which are then sealed in the A and B sample kits (or just one, if required for ABP only).
Dried Blood Spot (DBS) Collection
• The DCO/BCO identifies a safe, non-performance-affecting location (e.g., fingertip of non-dominant hand, or upper arm).
• The site is warmed (if needed), then disinfected with a sterile pad.
• Collection is done using cellulose cards (fingertip) or microneedle devices (arm).
• Samples are sealed in A and B containers, as per protocol.
Finalizing the Doping Control Form (DCF)
The athlete will:
• Confirm all details, including the sample code number and any declared medications or supplements taken.
• Indicate whether they consent to the use of the sample for research purposes.
• Receive and retain a copy of the DCF for their records.
Laboratory Analysis
All samples are securely transported to WADA-accredited laboratories, where they undergo analysis according to the highest international standards.