What Substances Can a Saliva Test Detect?
The ToxWipe 7 oral fluid testing device detects a wide range of substances, including:
- Amphetamines
- Methamphetamines
- MDMA (Ecstasy)
- Opiates
- Cocaine
- THC (Cannabis)
- Benzodiazepines
- Oxycodone
While benzodiazepines are not mandated under the AS/NZS 4760:2019 Standard, we include them on the ToxWipe 7 due to industry demand. Many employers choose to screen for these substances to meet internal policies or specific legislative requirements.
How a Saliva Test for Drug Use Works
A saliva test for drug use involves the following steps:
- Collection: A trained Collector uses the ToxWipe 7 to gather a saliva sample from the inner cheek or under the tongue.
- Analysis: The device processes the sample and provides a preliminary result within minutes.
- Confirmation: If the test shows a non-negative result, the sample is sent to a NATA-accredited lab for confirmation testing using the appropriate cut-off levels.
This streamlined process makes oral fluid testing highly efficient for onsite testing environments. Results can be obtained quickly, enabling businesses to act decisively when needed.
Why Choose a Mouth Saliva Drug Test for the Workplace?
There are several reasons employers across industries choose oral fluid testing:
- Non-invasive: No need for private collection rooms or special facilities.
- Rapid results: Most tests deliver results within 5–10 minutes.
- Convenience: Testing can be done onsite with minimal disruption.
- Recent use detection: A saliva drug test is ideal for determining recent use that may affect workplace safety.
- Compliance: When conducted according to AS/NZS 4760:2019, saliva drug tests meet national compliance standards.
For industries like construction, mining, transport and logistics, this method offers a practical and legally compliant solution.
Safe and Accredited Oral Fluid Testing Devices
The ToxWipe 7 is our preferred saliva test device. It has been independently assessed by a NATA-accredited lab and shown to meet all performance criteria set out in the current Australian Standard. It has been investigated for all required drug classes, including benzodiazepines, to meet broader industry needs.
This makes it suitable for:
- Random drug testing programs
- Pre-employment screening
- Return-to-work assessments
- Incident and post-incident testing
Using this device ensures your program remains accurate and reliable, reducing the risk of legal challenges or false results.
Industries That Rely on Saliva Drug Testing
Saliva drug testing is widely used across industries that rely on employee alertness and safety, including:
- Mining and resources
- Construction and infrastructure
- Transport and logistics
- Warehousing and manufacturing
- Healthcare and aged care
- Local government and utilities
In these settings, the ability to detect drug use quickly and non-invasively is essential to reducing risk and protecting both workers and the public.
Supporting Broader Safety Programs
Drug testing is just one part of a broader safety and compliance strategy. Many of our clients also implement ongoing support services, including:
- Education and awareness training
- Policy development and review
- Employee assistance programs (EAP)
- Biological monitoring for chemical exposure
We also support clients with a full range of services under our AOD test framework to help ensure safer work environments.
Onsite, 24/7 Mobile Drug Testing
SafeWork Health provides mobile drug testing services across Australia. Our vehicles are fully equipped to conduct compliant testing on the go. We also offer oral fluid and Instant urine drug test services, depending on your needs.
Mobile testing is ideal for:
- Remote locations
- FIFO/DIDO rosters
- Shift work environments
- Incident response scenarios
Wherever your team operates, we can offer you minimal lead time. Our mobile drug testing solutions provide flexibility without compromising compliance.
Preparing for a Saliva Drug Test
For employers, preparing your site for testing is simple:
- Provide a clean, quiet area for the collection process
- Inform staff about your company’s drug and alcohol policy
- Encourage transparency and cooperation among teams
Workers should avoid any substance use that could interfere with test results. This includes prescription medication, where relevant, which should always be declared before testing.
When to Use a Saliva Test
Oral fluid testing is especially useful in the following situations:
- Pre-employment: Screen potential hires as part of the onboarding process
- Random testing: Detect possible use among employees with safety-critical responsibilities
- Post-incident: Rule out impairment following workplace accidents
- Reasonable suspicion: When drug use is suspected based on behaviour
- Return-to-work: Ensure an employee is fit for duty after leave or treatment
A saliva drug test provides the speed and accuracy needed to support safe decision-making. It can also form part of a broader drug test for job readiness checks for new hires.
Legal Considerations and Compliance
Employers must ensure that all drug testing is lawful, consistent, and properly documented. This includes:
- Following national testing standards (AS/NZS 4760:2019)
- Engaging NATA-accredited providers
- Using qualified collectors and validated devices
- Protecting employee privacy and confidentiality
SafeWork Health supports employers through every stage of their drug testing program to meet these requirements.
Other Services You Might Need
Alongside oral fluid testing, we provide a full suite of workplace services, including:
- Instant urine drug test services
- Breath alcohol testing
- AOD test program development and support
- Fit-for-work medical assessments
We also assist businesses with drug tests for job readiness screening and long-term workforce health strategies.
Book a Saliva Drug Test for Your Workplace
If your workplace is ready to implement or review its drug and alcohol testing program, we’re here to help. Our team provides fully accredited saliva drug testing services with flexible onsite options, clear reporting, and ongoing support.
To arrange a test or learn more about our services, contact SafeWork Health today. We’ll work with you to create a safe, compliant, and proactive workplace drug testing program.
Read Less
