Testing Programme in the UK
In operating a National Anti-Doping Programme, UK Sport is responsible for the collection and transportation of samples for analysis to a World Anti-Doping Agency Accredited Laboratory. UK Sport is also responsible for reporting all test results to the appropriate National Governing Body (NGB) or International Federation (IF).
What is In-Competition Testing?
In-Competition Testing is testing conducted in connection with a sporting event. WADA define In-Competition as “the period commencing twelve hours before competition…through to the end of such competition and the Sample collection process related to such competition” unless it is stated otherwise by the rules of an IF or other related Anti-Doping Organisation.
You should familiarise yourself with the rules of each competition as defined by your IF or NGB.
Every sporting event should be open to the possibility of In-Competition Testing.
Who can be tested?
Any athlete that has entered a competition or has been named as a member of a team participating in a competition at any level within the UK is eligible for testing as part of UK Sport's Anti-Doping Programme.
How are athletes selected for testing In-Competition?
The selection of athletes for testing In-Competition is determined by UK Sport in conjunction with the NGB or IF. The selection policy may be:
- placing in the event (e.g. 1st, 2nd or 10th) or lane draw
- discipline, category or round
- a set number of players from each team (usually using random selection)
- target testing
- qualifying for national representation.
Most sports will not recognise a World or National Record until an Athlete has undertaken Sample Collection and returned a negative result.
What is Out-of-Competition Testing?
Out-of-Competition Testing is defined by WADA as “any testing not In-Competition”. Such testing can occur at any time of the year and at any location, including your home, place of training, or even while you are overseas. UK Sport’s Out-of-Competition Testing takes place at no-advance notice.
Who can be tested Out-of-Competition?
Any Athlete subject to the Anti-Doping Rules of their sport is eligible for testing at any time and any place and may therefore be tested Out-of-Competition. In addition to this, UK Sport will work with an NGB to select Athletes for the National Registered Testing Pool (NRTP).
If you are nominated for inclusion in the NRTP, you will be notified by your NGB or UK Sport of your requirement to provide information about your Whereabouts. This is called your Whereabouts Filing.
The Sample Collection Procedures
The Sample Collection Procedures outlined apply to testing conducted by UK Sport and follow the International Standard for Testing. These procedures are applicable to testing In-Competition and Out-of-Competition.
When tested abroad, you may notice that the procedure for testing varies slightly from country to country. It is important that the Sample Collection Procedures adhere to the International Standard for Testing and therefore, your rights as an Athlete should be maintained. You are encouraged to read and understand your sport’s Anti-Doping Rules and Sample Collection Procedures.
Doping Control Officers
A team of Doping Control Officers (DCOs) are authorised by UK Sport to conduct testing in the
Chaperones
UK Sport also has a team of trained Chaperones authorised by UK Sport to assist the DCOs in notifying and chaperoning Athletes until they report to the Doping Control Station.
Chaperones in the