Control procedure

Athletes can be tested by relevant National Anti-Doping Organisations (NADOs) or by a Doping Control Officer recognised by FISEC and FICEP.

Description of the Doping Control procedure

  1. Notification
    The athlete is notified by a doping control officer (DCO) or chaperone that they have been selected for doping control (testing) and they are informed under which ADOs authority they are being tested.
  2. Reporting to the Doping Control Station
    The athlete must report to the doping control station immediately (although they may be excused for medal ceremonies etc. once they’ve checked in).
  3. Choosing sample collection vessel
    The athlete will choose a urine sample collection vessel from a selection made available by the doping control personnel.
  4. Providing a sample
    The DCO or chaperone will witness the passing of the urine sample when the athlete is ready to provide it.
  5. Splitting of the sample
    The athlete will divide their urine into the A and B bottles, saving a residual amount of urine in the sample collection vessel.  The B sample affords the athlete the opportunity to have second analysis performed in the event their ‘A sample returns and adverse analytical finding (a ‘positive’ result).
  6. Sealing of the sample
    The athlete will seal the A and B bottles.
  7. Measuring specific gravity
    The DCO measures the specific gravity of the athlete’s urine to determine whether it meets laboratory standards. If the sample is too dilute the athlete will be asked to provide additional sample(s).
  8. Completing the Doping Control Form (DCF)
    The athlete completes the DCF, either in paper or digital format, with the DCO. The athlete is asked to provide personal information, a list of substances or methods used, and any comments they may have related to the doping control process. The athlete receives a print or digital copy of the DCF.
  9. The sample is sent to the laboratory
    The athlete’s sealed sample is secured and sent to a WADA-accredited laboratory. The laboratory copy of the DCF that accompanies the sample is anonymized, indicating only the sample bottle number, sport and the athlete’s gender.

Doping Control process for minors

An athlete under 18 years is considered a minor. Much of the testing process is the same as older athletes, however modifications are made to ensure minors are safeguarded. 
It is important to remember that at any point in the testing process a minor you can ask questions to ensure they feel confident and happy with the process.
Minors must be notified in the presence of an adult, who could be a parent, coach, national delegate or another member of Doping Control Personnel. The athlete may be accompanied by a representative at all times during the sample collection procedure, including in the washroom area during sample provision. However, the representative will not witness the passing of the sample. If the athlete decides not to have a representative, the Doping Control Officer may ask a third party to be present.