Urine Laboratory
Donors are required to produce a urine sample into a specially designed collection cup, provided by ScreenSafe UK, which is sealed and has a temperature control strip included. The sample is then decanted into laboratory test tube travel kits, A & B sample, which is then sent to the laboratory. This process, and the Chain of Custody form are completed by the Collection Officer in front of the donor, and are explained throughout the process. The individual sample is then stored in a cool-box until despatch. Samples are then batched with the other samples taken at that site during that day, and then sent to the laboratory for screening and confirmation via courier.

On receipt at the laboratory, the samples are checked to ensure that all tamper proof seals are still in tact and Chain of Custody form is complete and is then processed through to the laboratory. The A sample will be tested in the laboratory and the B sample will be kept in refrigerated storage for a minimum of 12 months, should the donor wish to challenge the result.

The initial stage of screening is completed via immunoassay screening (EMIT). At this stage any positive screen results will be processed through to GCMS (Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry) confirmation. The GCMS will confirm the presence and nature of drug entities or metabolites in positive screen results.

Both Network Rail (Link-Up approved) samples and London Underground samples are processed in this manner to the required Group Standards.