Testing Programme

NADA is responsible to implement an effective number of  in-competition and out-of-competition tests on the athletes in its registered testing pool. This includes international and national level athletes being tested by NADA . The NADA develops a test distribution plan and allocates the number of samples for each sport or discipline required for effective deterrence. The plan includes in-competition testing, out-of-competition testing, target testing, and may include blood as well as urine collection.

Annual Test Target of NADA 2021-22 

Number of Samples to be collected 2021-22
Urine 2269
Blood 278

Athletes can be tested any time, anywhere. Testing is done to protect those who compete fairly and sift out the cheaters in competition. Testing can take place in-competition, out of competition, at training venues or even at an athlete’s home or place of current residence. Testing will be conducted with no advanced notice.

A urine test is conducted in the following way.

  • An athlete is selected for doping control.
  • A volunteer or Doping Control Officer (DCO) will notify the athlete about their selection. They will show you identification. You will be told about your rights and responsibilities and asked to show identification.
  • Under observation at all times, the athlete will report to the Dope Control area where testing will take place. They must report immediately, unless requesting a delay*.Reasons to request delay are listed further down.
  • Athletes can choose a sample collection kit. They must inspect the kit and ensure it is not tampered.
  • The DCO, of the same gender as the athlete, will directly observe them as they provide a sample. Athletes may be asked to remove clothing to provide an unobstructed view.
  • Athletes have to provide a minimum of 90ml of urine. Then they will be asked to split their sample into A and B bottles. Ensure bottles that you select for this are not tampered with. This process ensures you have a chance to appeal for a second analysis in case of adverse findings.
  • Athletes will have to seal their samples. Ensure the bottles are fastened properly.
  • The officer will check the concentration and density of the sample. If inadequate, the athlete will be asked to provide another.
  • Athletes have to complete the doping control form and sign it. Athletes must mention medications and supplements they took within the past seven days. They are entitled to a copy of the form.

The samples will be sent to a WADA accredited lab for analysis. The A sample will be analyzed and the B sample stored securely. Samples can be stored for up to ten years.

Page last modified on: Apr 13, 2020

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