HLTPAT010 – Collect specimens for drugs of abuse testing

Our industry-leading HLTPAT010 – Collect specimens for drugs of abuse testing training is aligned with current drug and alcohol testing standards and delivered in a practical and easy-to-follow format. Our training equips participants with the skills and confidence required for real-world drug and alcohol testing

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Overview

HLTPAT010 – Collect specimens for drugs of abuse testing (hereafter “HLTPAT010”) is a nationally recognised unit of competency that covers the skills and knowledge required to collect specimens for drugs of abuse testing. It focuses on confirming collection requirements, preparing individuals and equipment, and collecting specimens using the specific procedures required for workplace and healthcare testing environments. The unit of Competency came into effect in December 2025.

This unit is commonly used in workplace drug and alcohol (D&A) testing programs and in clinical or occupational health settings where legally defensible and compliant specimen collection is required.

Full details of this unit of competency can be found here: https://training.gov.au/training/details/HLTPAT010/unitdetails

What does HLTPAT010 cover?

HLTPAT010 describes the ability to:

  • Confirm specimen collection requirements and site instructions
  • Prepare the individual being tested and explain the collection process
  • Prepare equipment and documentation
  • Collect specimens using urine and/or oral fluid methods, and conduct breath alcohol testing where required
  • Follow special procedures that apply to drugs of abuse testing
  • Maintain specimen integrity through correct handling and documentation (often referred to as chain of custody)

Who is HLTPAT010 for?

This unit is suitable for people who collect drug and alcohol testing specimens as part of their role, including:

  • Workplace drug and alcohol collectors
  • Occupational health and safety or occupational health staff
  • Healthcare workers involved in specimen collection
  • Contractors and mobile testing service providers
  • Organisations running onsite drug and alcohol testing programs

Why HLTPAT010 is important

Correct specimen collection is critical to the integrity and defensibility of drug and alcohol testing results. HLTPAT010 supports:

  • Consistent and professional collection practices
  • Compliance with workplace drug and alcohol programs
  • Reduced risk of errors, contamination, or invalid results
  • Alignment with commonly referenced Australian Standards used in workplace testing

Many employers and clients require collectors to hold HLTPAT010 as a minimum competency to participate in workplace testing programs.

HLTPAT010 and HLTPAT005

HLTPAT010 is widely recognised as the unit that supersedes HLTPAT005. While HLTPAT005 may still be held by some collectors, many organisations now reference HLTPAT010 to reflect updated training expectations.

Whether an individual needs to update from HLTPAT005 to HLTPAT010 depends on employer, client, or site-specific requirements.

What you’ll learn

Participants completing HLTPAT010 typically learn how to:

Before collection

  • Confirm testing requirements and procedures
  • Prepare the collection area and equipment
  • Explain the process and obtain cooperation

During collection

  • Collect urine specimens correctly
  • Collect oral fluid (saliva) specimens correctly
  • Conduct breath alcohol testing when required
  • Manage non-negative results, refusals, or unusual circumstances

After collection

  • Complete required documentation
  • Secure and label specimens correctly
  • Maintain chain of custody and specimen integrity
  • Follow workplace procedures and WHS requirements

Standards commonly referenced

Training aligned with HLTPAT010 often references Australian Standards used in workplace drug and alcohol testing, including:

  • AS/NZS 4308 – Procedures for urine drug testing
  • AS/NZS 4760 – Procedures for oral fluid drug testing
  • AS 3547 – Breath alcohol testing

Collectors must always follow their organisation’s drug and alcohol management program, applicable standards, and testing device manufacturer instructions.

How training is usually delivered

Delivery and assessment methods vary by Registered Training Organisation (RTO), but commonly include:

  • Theory-based learning
  • Practical demonstration of collection procedures
  • Assessment of knowledge and skills
  • In some cases, supervised workplace or on-the-job collection activities

Successful completion results in a Statement of Attainment for HLTPAT010, issued by the RTO.

Frequently asked questions

Is HLTPAT010 nationally recognised?
Yes. HLTPAT010 is listed on the Australian Government’s National Training Register as a nationally recognised unit of competency.

Do I need HLTPAT010 to collect workplace drug and alcohol specimens?
Many workplace testing programs expect collectors to be trained and deemed competent, and some employers and clients specifically require HLTPAT010.

Does HLTPAT010 cover urine, saliva, and breath testing?
The unit covers specimen collection using urine and/or oral fluid methods and includes breath alcohol testing where applicable.

I completed HLTPAT005. Do I need to update my training?
HLTPAT010 is commonly referenced as the updated unit. Whether you need to update depends on your employer, client requirements, and workplace policies.

Next steps

If you are involved in workplace drug and alcohol testing, HLTPAT010 provides a nationally recognised foundation for compliant specimen collection. Training can be completed through a Registered Training Organisation and may be delivered onsite or in a classroom environment, depending on the provider.

Disclaimer:
This information is general in nature. Training requirements, workplace procedures, and compliance obligations may vary by organisation, industry, and jurisdiction. Always follow your organisation’s drug and alcohol management program and applicable standards.