Screening and Testing
How we test
Alcohol Screening
Alcohol is measured by analysing the alcohol in the breath using a high quality breathalyser.
Frontline Diagnostics' Field Collection Officers use breathalysers that meet Australian Standards AS3547-1997.
As part of the Drug-Safe Workplace programme it is strongly recommended that supervisors and managers are trained in the use of a company hand held alcohol testing unit that meets these Standards.
Other Drugs Screening
Screening for other drugs can be achieved in several ways:
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NATA accredited Urine based drug screen
This provides immediate, onsite analysis for identifying the presence of the following drugs:- Opiates (heroin, codeine)
- THC (marijuana, cannabis)
- Amphetamines (speed)
- Methamphetamine (ecstasy, MDMA)
- Cocaine
- Benzodiazepine (Sleeping tablets/Valium)
It is vital in the event of a 'needs-further-testing' result, that Australian Standard procedures (AS4308:2008) are followed regarding correct preparation of samples and ‘chain of custody forms’, for dispatch to a NATA accredited laboratory for further analysis. The laboratory results will quantify the level of drug/s present. -
NATA accredited (collection) Oral Fluid based drug screen
These are relatively new screening devices which use saliva to identify the presence of a drug.
Similar to a thermometer, the wick contains a citrus type activator which is 'wiped' across the tongue’s saliva glands to generate a good saliva flow.
The device is then placed beneath the tongue for several minutes until the wick is saturated.
The saliva soaks through the wick to activate the drug screen. After a short while the results are shown through a display window similar to that on a urine screen. -
Laboratory Confirmation Testing: (Australian Standard AS4308:2008)
To quantify the amount of a drug or drugs present, the urine sample is sent to an accredited laboratory to conduct Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS) analysis. This is the 'gold standard' test in forensic toxicology and provides a highly accurate assessment of the amount and types of drugs present in the sample.
Once the drug has been confirmed through laboratory analysis, it is referred to as a 'positive' sample. Results are sent to Frontline Diagnostics who will interpret the details for your designated representative.
Our toxicologist is available for discussion and interpretation of results.
Reasons for Drug Screening
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Pre-employment
The pre-employment drug screening is normally conducted as part of the normal health check when a job applicant has been short-listed for a position. -
Blanket
A blanket screen is a very effective method of ascertaining what types of drugs may be present in your workplace and the scope of the problem.
Blanket screens can be conducted in two ways: anonymous
or recorded names. -
Random
A random selection of staff is chosen to be screened on any given day or shift. This is usually a percentage of the staff, contractors or visitors present. -
Reasonable cause/Fit for work
Drug screening can be conducted to allow managers and supervisors to challenge a subordinate or co-worker’s fitness for work. -
Return to Work
This drug screening can be used to establish that an employee can produce a negative sample result prior to returning to work. -
Inductions
Pre-induction screening is used in mining and other heavy industry to check the suitability of a person being issued with a site access card. -
Pre-site visit
A pre-site visit drug screen is used to test the suitability of a particular staff member prior to sending them to a work site where they will be screened for Alcohol and Other Drugs.
Where we test
Our team of Field Collection Officers are trained using strict Frontline Diagnostics company procedures that incorporate Australian Standards AS3547:1997, AS4760:2006 and AS4308:2008.
Our screening services can be provided through:
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Mobile Clinics
Our mobile clinics provide a safe and hygienic solution that are set up and ready for testing immediately upon arrival. Each vehicle is crewed by two uniformed Field Collection Officers who are professional, efficient and courteous.
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In-house
Where clients prefer to have screening conducted in-house, our Field Collection staff will require hygienic, toilet facilities adjacent to a room that offers privacy and confidentiality. This allows screening to be conducted discreetly and efficiently with minimal disruption. -
Semi-permanent clinics
Frontline Diagnostics can provide static testing clinics that are fully self-contained. 15amp power is all that is required for air-conditioning and other facilities. These are purpose built by Frontline Diagnostics and have a lead time of approximately 8 weeks for delivery and installation.
Specifications
- Fully insulated and air-conditioned.
- Security grilles.
- Water provided from roof or tanker/hose.
- Internal water tank.
- Pressure pump for toilet and hand basin.
- Built-in waste (grey) water collection tank with pump out.
- Built-in waste collection tank with pump out.
- Full toilet facilities (oversized).
- Full hand washing facilities.
- Desk and seating.
- Able to be lifted and moved by tilt tray vehicle.
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