Who is responsible for the integrity of the drug testing process?

The integrity of the drug testing process fundamentally rests with the collector overseeing the procedure. This individual plays a crucial role in ensuring that the collection of samples is conducted according to established protocols and follows the regulatory guidelines. The collector is responsible for maintaining the chain of custody, ensuring that the sample is collected in a secure environment, and preventing any potential contamination or tampering.

The collector's training and adherence to procedure help safeguard the entire process, from sample collection to the transportation of the sample to the laboratory. Their responsibilities include verifying the identity of the individual providing the sample, explaining the collection process, and ensuring that all required documentation is completed accurately. This oversight is essential in maintaining confidence in the validity of drug testing results.

While the other roles, such as the testing lab and the Substance Abuse Professional, also contribute to the drug testing process, they do not have the same direct influence over the sample collection phase, which is critical for ensuring the overall integrity of the testing process.