The process for blood collection follows much of the same principles as those for the collection of urine however the drawing of blood is carried out by a trained Phlebotomist or Blood Collection Official (BCO).

Doping Control can involve the collection of blood only, urine only, or both.

The notification process of your selection for blood testing is the same as it is for urine. Reporting to the Doping Control Station and your rights and responsibilities are also the same.

In general the blood collection procedure is as follows:

1. You will be asked to rest for a period of time before the collection of blood starts, usually 10 minutes.

2. You will be asked to select a blood collection kit containing all the necessary equipment for blood collection. The equipment typically includes a sterile needle, syringe, and the relevant vacutainer tubes for collecting your sample.

3. You will also be asked to select a sample sealing kit in which your blood sample will be secured and transported to the laboratory. You should always check the equipment thoroughly to be sure it is clean and has not been tampered with.

4. The BCO will assess the most suitable site to draw blood (usually on your non dominant arm), apply a tourniquet if necessary, and clean the skin at the puncture site.

5. The BCO will then draw the necessary volume of blood filling a minimum of two tubes.

6. The amount of blood collected in each tube is up to a maximum of 5ml which is approximately one teaspoon.

7. If the BCO is unable to find a vein after three attempts to insert the needle, the blood collection will be cancelled.

8. Once the blood has been drawn, the tubes can then be sealed in tamperproof bottles ready for transport.

9. The DCO will record the relevant sample code numbers on the Doping Control form and complete the remainder of the process with you.

10. If you are also required to provide a urine sample this can be completed before or after blood collection depending on when you are ready to provide a urine sample.

11. Your sample will then be transported to a WADA accredited laboratory for analysis.

Transport and Sample Storage

Blood and urine samples are stored and transported in a manner that ensures the integrity of samples. The STORAGE of SAMPLES for WADA-accredited laboratories is for a period of up to 10 years.

The Doping Control Officer (DCO) has the responsibility for ensuring that all samples are stored in a manner that protects their identity, integrity and security whilst in the Doping Control Station.

Samples must not be left unattended, unless they are locked away in a refrigerator or store. Where possible, urine samples shall be stored in a cool environment. Blood samples must be stored in a refrigerator (not a freezer). The DCO shall accurately complete appropriate documentation for each transport bag/container to ensure that the laboratory can verify the contents of the bag/container. The DCO shall complete the Chain of Custody form. The laboratory copy of the form(s) shall be placed in the transport bag with the samples, and sealed, preferably in the presence of a second person.