Skip to content 
A Guide to Saliva Drug Testing Kits in Australia
If you’re seeking accurate and reliable methods to conduct workplace drug testing, saliva drug testing kits offer a convenient and effective solution.
In this article, we’ll delve into how saliva drug tests work, their accuracy and reliability, where to buy them in Australia, and their various applications, including workplace drug screening, roadside testing, and pre-employment use.
How Saliva Drug Tests Work
Saliva drug testing is a non-invasive method that can detect the presence of drugs and their metabolites in an individual’s saliva. Unlike urine, blood, or hair testing, which may require specialised collection procedures and equipment, saliva drug tests are relatively straightforward and convenient.
A. Detection Windows for Different Drugs
Saliva drug tests have different detection windows for various drugs. These windows refer to the period during which drugs can be detected in the saliva after use. The drug detection times vary based on factors such as the drug’s half-life, frequency of use, and individual metabolism. Here are some common drugs and their typical detection windows in saliva drug testing1:
- Marijuana (THC): Detectable for 1-3 days after use, or up to 30 days with frequent use.
- Cocaine: Detectable for up to 1-2 days after use.
- Amphetamines (including methamphetamine): Detectable for up to 4 days after use.
- Opiates (e.g., heroin, opium, tramadol): Detectable for up to 2 days after use.
- Codeine and Morphine: Detectable for up to 4 days after use.
- Benzodiazepines: Detectable for up to 3 days after use.
- MDMA (Ecstasy or Molly): Detectable for up to 2 days after use.
It’s essential to note that detection times can vary based on the specific test kit’s sensitivity and the amount of drug used.
B. Saliva Sample Collection
Saliva sample collection is simple and quick. A collection sponge is placed inside the mouth, usually under the tongue or against the cheek, to collect a saliva sample. This process is non-invasive and can be conducted in a supervised or unsupervised manner, depending on the testing situation.
C. Reading the Results of Saliva Drug Testing Kits
Interpreting the results of a saliva drug test is usually straightforward. The test device will display clear indicators for positive or negative results. However, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to ensure accurate readings.
Accuracy and Reliability of Saliva Drug Testing Kits
How Accurate Are Saliva Tests?
Saliva drug tests, when performed correctly and with reliable testing kits, are highly accurate. They can provide timely information about recent drug use, making them particularly valuable in certain situations.
For instance:
Post-Accident Investigations: In situations where accidents occur in the workplace or on the roads, determining if drug use played a role is crucial for legal and liability purposes. Saliva drug tests can provide timely information about drug use, helping investigators understand whether the presence of drugs contributed to the incident.
Substance Abuse Treatment Programs: For individuals undergoing substance abuse treatment, saliva drug tests can be vital in monitoring compliance with treatment plans. Regular testing helps healthcare professionals track progress and ensure patients are staying drug-free during their recovery journey.
Random Drug Testing in Schools: Some educational institutions may implement random drug testing programs to deter drug use among students and maintain a drug-free learning environment. Saliva drug tests provide a practical and efficient method for conducting such testing.
Factors That Affect Accuracy of Saliva Drug Testing Kits
Several factors can influence the accuracy of saliva drug tests:
- The quality and sensitivity of the testing kit used.
- Proper sample collection and handling procedures.
- Adherence to the test’s expiration date and storage conditions.
By ensuring you use quality, verified saliva drug testing kits and following proper procedures, you can enhance the accuracy and reliability of your test results.
Pros and Cons Vs. Urine, Blood, and Hair Testing
Saliva drug testing offers several advantages over other testing methods:
- Non-invasive and easier to administer compared to blood tests.
- Shorter detection windows make it ideal for detecting recent drug use.
- Can be performed on-site without the need for specialised equipment.
- Saliva tests offer quicker results compared to hair testing, which may take days to yield results.
- Saliva drug tests are less susceptible to adulteration or tampering compared to urine tests.
However, it’s essential to consider the specific requirements of your testing situation when choosing the appropriate workplace drug testing method.
Cons of saliva drug testing:
- Shorter detection windows compared to urine, blood, and hair tests, making them less suitable for detecting drug use beyond a few days.
- Lower sensitivity for certain drugs compared to urine or blood tests, potentially leading to false negatives.
- Due to the shorter detection window, saliva tests are less ideal for long-term drug monitoring compared to hair tests.
- Unlike urine or blood tests, saliva tests may not detect drug metabolites, which can be essential for identifying specific drugs and their breakdown products.
Buying Saliva Drug Testing Kits in Australia
Types of Kits Available
In Australia, you can find different types of saliva drug tests:
- Roadside Testing Kits
Roadside testing kits such as DrugWipe® 6S are designed for quick and efficient on-the-spot testing. They are commonly used by law enforcement agencies to conduct drug testing on drivers suspected of driving under the influence of drugs.
- Pre-employment Testing Kits
Saliva drug testing kits are widely used in Australia by employers during the hiring process. These kits help ensure a drug-free workplace by detecting recent drug use in potential employees, providing a quick and non-invasive method to assess their suitability for the job.
- Lab-Based Testing Kits
Laboratories also use saliva drug testing kits for more comprehensive and accurate analysis. These kits are usually employed when confirming results from initial screening tests.
Additionally, in scenarios demanding a comprehensive assessment of multiple drug classes, laboratories rely on Extended Panel Saliva Drug Testing Kits. These comprehensive kits are frequently used in workplace drug testing, post-accident investigations, and forensic toxicology, where a thorough examination of various drug categories is essential.
Where to Buy Kits
You can purchase saliva drug testing kits from various sources in Australia:
- Workplace Safety Suppliers: Companies specialising in workplace safety equipment and supplies often offer saliva drug testing kits for employers who need to conduct workplace drug screening.
- Online Retailers: Many online platforms offer a wide range of workplace drug testing kits, including saliva drug tests. Ensure to buy from reputable and verified sellers.
- Local Pharmacies: Some pharmacies and drug stores may carry saliva drug testing kits. Check with your local pharmacy to see if they offer these products. Make sure the kits are compliant with AS/NZS 4760:2019 standards, assuring quality and reliable results.
- Medical Supply Stores: Specialty medical supply stores may also stock saliva drug testing kits. These stores cater to various medical needs and often have drug testing kits available for purchase.
Saliva Drug Testing Applications
Workplace Drug Screening
Many employers conduct random drug screening to maintain a safe and productive work environment. Saliva drug testing kits like First Sign are well-suited for this purpose because they can detect drug use within a short window of time, typically up to 24-48 hours. This allows employers to identify employees who may be under the influence of drugs while on duty, ensuring workplace safety and compliance with company drug policies.
Pre-employment Drug Testing
Pre-employment drug screening with saliva drug testing kits is a vital step for employers to ensure a safe and drug-free workplace. These tests can detect recent drug use within a short window, typically up to 24-48 hours. By identifying potential drug users before hiring, employers can mitigate safety risks, maintain productivity, and uphold their company’s drug policies. Saliva tests offer a convenient and effective way to screen candidates, helping employers make informed decisions about their workforce.
Post-Accident Drug Screening
Post-accident investigations often rely on saliva drug testing to determine if drug use played a role in workplace or roadside incidents. Timely and accurate information about drug use is essential for legal and liability purposes. Saliva drug tests provide valuable insights into recent drug use, helping investigators understand whether drugs were a contributing factor in accidents. These tests offer a non-invasive and efficient method for assessing an individual’s drug use history after an unfortunate event.
Roadside Drug Testing
Law enforcement agencies in Australia use roadside saliva drug testing to detect drug-impaired drivers. These tests help ensure road safety and reduce the risks associated with driving under the influence of drugs. The ability of saliva tests to detect recent drug use makes them valuable for immediate on-the-spot testing.
Probation and Parole Monitoring
As part of probation or parole conditions, individuals may be required to undergo drug testing regularly. Saliva drug tests offer a non-invasive and quick way to monitor compliance with court orders, helping to maintain public safety and support successful rehabilitation.
Conclusion
Saliva drug testing kits are a valuable tool for detecting recent drug use in various settings, from pre-employment screening to workplace random drug tests. They offer several advantages over other testing methods, including convenience, shorter detection windows, and non-invasiveness.
To ensure accurate and reliable results, it’s imperative to use verified and quality saliva drug testing kits. Additionally, following proper sample collection and handling procedures will further enhance the accuracy of the test results.
Whether you are an employer, law enforcement officer, or an individual in need of drug monitoring, saliva drug testing kits provide an accessible and efficient means of detecting drug use in Australia. By understanding the benefits and limitations of saliva drug tests, you can make informed decisions to promote a safer and drug-free workplace.
Contact Details
Phone: 1800 187 238
Email:
Categories
Recent Post
Categories
Australia Drug Testing provides quality drug and alcohol test kits that are simple to use, highly sensitive, fast, and reliable. You should always use products that are certified to Australian Standards to avoid device malfunctions which could cause a false positive.Our testing kits are sourced from the best products in the market to match your various workplace needs:
- Alcohol test kits
- Urine drug test kits
- Saliva drug test kits
