Course introduction and outline

Onsite Diagnostics’ ‘Certified Drug Screening Officer’ training course has been developed to meet new legislative requirements for drug testing in accordance with the following Australian Standards:

AS/NZS 4308-2008   Procedures for specimen collection and the detection and quantitation of drugs of abuse in urine

AS 4760-2006   Procedures for specimen collection and the detection and quantitation of drugs in oral fluid

The unit HLTPAT304B covers the competence required to use and correctly interpret drug testing equipment, collect oral and urine samples for both onsite screening tests and preparation and packaging for dispatch to an Australian Standards approved laboratory for confirmatory testing.

The learning program is designed to ensure correct procedures are followed when performing onsite drug screening and preparing and packaging a specimen and specifically covers:

1                       Introduction

2                       Drug types and their effects

3                       Review of Australian Standards

4                       Drug testing methods

5                       Arranging a test

6                       Drug testing equipment types – urine test cups & oral fluid tests

7                       Confirmatory testing at the laboratory

8                       Chain of custody requirements

9                       Test integrity

10                     Conducting a urine drug test

11                     Conducting and oral fluid drug test

On completion of the course participants will be issued with a ‘Statement of Attainment’ allowing them to work as drug screening officers in a workplace environment.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Certified Drug Screening Officer Training Course a Nationally Recognised Training Programme?

Our training course, is a nationally recognised training course accredited under the Australian Quality Training Framework.

Nationally Recognised Training can only be delivered by a Registered Training Organisation that has the qualification concerned on their Scope of Registration. Onsite Diagnostics is registered to provide this training nationwide.

Does the course comply with Australian Standards?

Certified Drug Screening Officers are required to hold a Statement of Attainment in accordance with the Australian Quality Training Framework under the definition of   ‘Collector’ in the following standards. Our training will ensure you and your staff meet the following Australian/New Zealand Standards qualification guidelines:

AS/NZS 4308:2008 - Procedures for specimen collection and the detection and quantitation of drugs of abuse in urine.

AS 4760:2006   - Procedures for specimen collection and detection and the detection and quantitation of drugs in oral fluid.

What Employment Pathways are available?

The training package has been developed by us in consultation with industry and other interested parties to ensure it reflects the needs of industry.

It is specifically designed for persons who are employed in the field of drug and alcohol screening and who wish to obtain a nationally recognised qualification.

Employment pathways include working in drug and alcohol screening at mine sites, transport industries, large industrial sites, medical centres and other workplaces or environments where the need for drug and alcohol screening has been identified as a Workplace Health and Safety requirement.

Where is the training conducted?

Classroom option:

We provide training nationwide in capital cities and a variety of regional areas on a regular basis. Training is conducted in one of our professional training rooms.

For corporate clients we are able to train at your work site or arrange a suitable training venue for you. Work site visits are subject to minimum numbers depending on location and travel time. For corporate clients the course will be tailored to encompass familiarity with your company Drug & Alcohol Policy and in-house procedures.

Distance Learning option:

In order to allow flexibility and convenience for workplaces and their employees we offer this course via distance learning. The duration of study is approximately 6 hours of private study.

You will have access to a qualified drug testing officer/assessor over the phone who will assist you with any questions you have during your study.

Please call 1300 667 107 for enrolment information.

A study kit with course materials will be sent to you upon enrolment.

Who are the training staff?

Collectively our trainers have experience in conducting drug and alcohol screening for a variety of clients. These include mining sites, industrial sites, medical centres & various other environments. Our trainers have experience in drafting workplace drug & alcohol policies for our clients so are very well briefed in the multiple applications of drug testing. All trainers are qualified in ‘Certificate IV in Training and Assessment’.

What is the Qualification obtained?

On completion of the training students will be issued with a Statement of Attainment in HLTPAT304B – Collect pathology specimens other than blood.

What are the pre-requisites for enrolling in the course?

Mandatory requirements:

-           must be at least 18 years of age

-             minimum year 12 education or equivalent

-            strong English language skills

Preferred skills:

-          ability to communicate clearly

-           attention to detail

-           courteous, responsive & helpful

-           problem solving skills

What are the course fees and duration?

Fees:

Classroom training sessions - $660 per person (includes GST)

Distance Learning - $660 per person (includes GST)

For training at your workplace the cost varies – contact us for a quote

Duration:

Classroom training – 1 day program of 6 hours + lunch

Distance Learning – 6 hours private study