Sample Collection Process
An important piece of any anti-doping program is sample collection or the process of securing an athlete’s blood and/or urine sample, completing paperwork, as well as preparing and shipping the sample to a WADA accredited laboratory. USADA is a signatory to the World Anti-Doping Code (Code), and USADA’s sample collection process is fully compliant with the Code and International Standard for Testing & Investigations.
The sample collection process is designed to be a safe process, and as comfortable as possible for athletes, while ensuring that maximum sample integrity is maintained throughout. The sample collection process is a standard procedure from notification of the athlete to the shipment of the sample to the laboratory.
Read more about the blood and urine sample collection process using the links below.
When selected for testing, athletes have the RIGHT to:
- Have a representative accompany the athlete throughout the doping control process
- Have an interpreter present, if available
- Complete a training session or other activities while the DCO or notifying chaperone observes the athlete (out-of-competition)
- Have the testing procedures explained to the athlete, including how the sample collection equipment works
- Request to view the DCO's credentials
- Have a choice of collection vessels and sample collection kits
- Receive a copy of the sample collection documentation used to document the processing of the athlete's sample
- Provide feedback on the USADA Athlete Evaluation Form and/or a Supplementary Report From
- Request a delay in reporting to the doping control station for valid reasons (in-competition)
- Request modifications if the athlete has a disabilty
During a test, athletes are RESPONSIBLE for:
- Complying with the sample collection procedures and DCO instructions**
- Reporting immediately to the doping control area unless there are approved reasons for delay (in-competition testing)
- Presenting government issued photo identification at the time of notification
- Staying in direct observation of the DCO or notifying chaperone from the time of notification until the sample collection session is complete
- Keeping the collection vessel in their possession and in view of the DCO at all times
- Having control of the sample until it is sealed in the sample collection bottles (the DCO may assist upon request)
- Ensuring the sample code number is correctly documented on the sample collection documentation
- Ensuring all appropriate sample collection documentation is accurate, complete, and signed
**NOTE: As defined by Article 2.3 of the UFC Anti-Doping Policy: “intentionally evading Sample collection, or without compelling justification, intentionally refusing or intentionally or negligently failing to submit to the Sample collection after notification as authorized in the UFC Anti-Doping Policy shall result in an Anti-Doping Policy Violation.”
In addition, tampering or attempted tampering with any part of doping control, as defined in Article 2.5 of the UFC Anti-Doping Policy, shall also result in an Anti-Doping Policy Violation.