How has COVID-19 affected drug and alcohol testing in sport in the last year? 

How has COVID-19 affected drug and alcohol testing in sport in the last year? 

With everyone in England looking forward to June the 21st, it does seem like there is an end in sight as far as restrictions go.

Interestingly, the England football team are playing the Czech Republic on the 22nd of June, and it begs the question here at OdiliaClark – how has the pandemic has affected drug testing within the sport? 

The International Tennis Federation (ITF) heads the governing body that’s responsible for the sports’ anti-doping programme. ITF has suggested there were still drug tests carried out in 2020, but not to the volume of 2019. 7,773 urine and blood samples were collected to test in 2019. This figure dropped to just 3,282 in 2020. Using Novak Djokovic for example, he was tested 12 times in 2020 compared to 24 times in 2019, The Times reported. 

However, this problem goes above just Tennis. It is reported boxers, rugby league players, hockey, netball and rowing athletes were tested by UKAD between April and June in 2020. The trouble was that during lockdown there was an issue with maintaining social distancing. 

There have been a few arguments to implement hair testing to clean up the last six months. The pandemic has required drug testing services to constantly adapt. Risk is inevitable given the environment but with taking the necessary precautions there is no reason drug testing can’t resume to the normal amount. 

Drug testing doesn’t just apply to sport, businesses today are stepping up their efforts to incorporate safe practices. In the last month, we have seen a change in drug testing amongst the aerospace and aviation industry.  

OdiliaClark can provide you with outstanding drug and alcohol testing within your business. We take the time to understand your requirements and provide the safe and appropriate service best suited to your business. 

If you would like to learn more about drug and alcohol testing or get in touch with one of our team, click here to initiate a conversation today. 

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OdiliaClark offers an independent drug and alcohol testing service using state-of-the-art Dräger equipment as used by the British Police and Fire Services. OdiliaClark is currently consulting with several airlines and operators to help them deal with the impact of these changes.  

OdiliaClark is a specialist human resources company whose consultants are fully trained and certified in carrying out impartial, digital drug testing for companies’ employees. They also offer a range of other services including policy advice, writing and implementation which can include staff training services.   

For more information on how Odilia Clark can help your business deal with these changes with a bespoke package designed for your business contact info@odiliaclark.com.