A new trans-Tasman standard for the testing of oral fluids for drugs provides a framework and guidelines "to ensure that oral fluid testing is carried out in a way that will deliver accurate, reliable results,"  The Drug Detection Agency (TDDA) believes.
The standard for oral fluid testing processes and technologies now agreed by both Standards Australia and Standards NZ dictates consistency around testing methodology, the quality of devices required, and how labs manage test samples, TDDA says. 
"The new standardisation delivers value to employees and employers alike," says CEO Kirk Hardy.
TDDA says it is "on track" to be the first to achieve Australasian accreditation and provide an independent and reliable, externally-audited oral fluid drug testing collection service to International Standards Organisation (ISO) levels. TDDA-Omega Laboratories is also seeking accreditation for the provision of laboratory confirmation services. 
"If a drug tester follows the standard, they'll use a process that ensures the testing carried out meets the requirements of the AS/NZS 4760:2019, giving it more scientific rigour to withstand legal challenges. We're also in the process of verifying a device to meet the criteria of the new standard" says Hardy. 
Even with standardisation improvements with collection, Hardy warns that oral fluid testing isn't a catch-all testing product, and not all workplace testers are accredited or will follow the standard. 
"Businesses who care about compliance and the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 need to make sure they're using an independent, accredited, certified tester that follows the new standard. But companies also need to understand it's not a one size fits all test," says Hardy. 
TDDA recommends utilising a range of different testing methods, such as a mixture of oral fluid, urine and hair testing.