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Oral Fluid laboratory drug testing in London

Oral fluid (saliva) laboratory drug testing is a UKAS 17025 method of analysis. Saliva drug testing is becoming more popular as a workplace drug test due to its shorter drug detection window and less invasive collection method than urine. Saliva drug testing has an effective drug detection window of up to 2 days*

*Dependant on several factors including frequency of drug use.

Saliva drug testing locations in London Saliva drug testing locations in London

How does saliva laboratory drug testing work?

When consumed, drugs produce specific chemical markers in the body called metabolites. The metabolites are excreted by the body through saliva, and their presence can prove that the drug was taken by the individual.

Saliva laboratory drug testing consists of two phases of analysis. First, the sample undergoes an immunoassay screen. If this is clear, a negative laboratory report will be issued. If the screening phase produces a non-negative result, the sample will go on for confirmatory testing using the chromatography method. Depending on the result of this, a positive or negative laboratory report will be issued.

About saliva laboratory drug testing

When to use the saliva laboratory drug test

Saliva laboratory drug testing is a good method of testing for safety critical roles when toilet facilities are not available. The confirmatory testing phase provides accurate laboratory results that can be used by employers to take disciplinary action where appropriate.

Unlike the urine laboratory drug test, with a shorter detection window, saliva testing be deemed as a fairer drug test to conduct in the workplace.

Drugs we can test for in the saliva laboratory drug test

There are many drugs that can be tested for in saliva. It is important to understand that the more obscure drug groups may not fall under UKAS 17025 accreditation. Please speak to a Clinical Advisor if this may be the case. However, the most popular recreational and prescription drugs are covered by the accreditation, and these include:

Amphetamine and Methamphetamines which includes Ecstasy.
Benzodiazepines
Cannabis
Cocaine
Methadone
Opiates
Ketamine

Call and speak to a Clinical Advisor about the drugs you may need testing.

Saliva laboratory drug testing sample collection

At the sample collection appointment, a certified collection officer will guide the donor through the test documentation, obtain and verify ID, and collect the saliva samples. All of which is performed under strict chain of custody policies and procedures, to ensure sample integrity and an audit trail. This is critical to being able to use the laboratory results for legal and workplace disciplinary purposes.

Saliva is collected using tamper evident and anti-adulteration methods. In addition, two saliva samples are obtained from the donor. The 'A' sample is tested, while the 'B' sample is retained by the testing laboratory if a result is challenged. The donor has the right to request the 'B' sample to be tested at an alternative UKAS accredited laboratory*.

A donor will be asked to sign consent to have their saliva samples collected and analysed by the laboratory for the drugs chosen.

Finally, the samples are secured using tamper-proof measures, and transported securely for processing.

*Additional costs apply.

Important saliva laboratory drug testing timeframes

The saliva laboratory drug test can effectively detect the metabolites of drugs for an average period of up to 2 days. However, this can vary greatly, depending on the individual, drug type and frequency of use. For example, metabolites of THC (cannabis) can be detected in saliva for a chronic user for up to 1 month after use.

From the point the saliva samples reach the laboratory, initial screen results are provided on the next working day. If confirmatory drug testing is required, this may take another 3 to 5 working days depending on the number and type of drugs to be analysed.

If you require a longer-term drug detection window, consider a hair drug test.

Hair drug testing in London Hair drug testing in London

The costs of saliva laboratory drug testing in London

Saliva laboratory drug testing costs depend on the number of donors to be tested at the same appointment. For example, the cost for an individual at a clinic location in London is £180. However, the price for saliva laboratory testing at a workplace in London can be as little as £72 per person for multiple employees to be tested.

Prices inclusive of VAT

Request a saliva laboratory drug test quotation Request a saliva laboratory drug test quotation

How to book an appointment for a saliva laboratory drug test in London

To book a saliva laboratory drug test in London, please call 0800 988 7107. You will be put through to a Clinical Account Manager who will help you find your nearest sample collection location in London. In addition, they will guide you through the booking and saliva testing process and answer any technical questions you may have.