Course Description

The unit HLTPAT010 – Collect Specimens for Drugs of Abuse Testing provides students with the skills and knowledge required to safely and accurately collect specimens for drug testing in compliance with industry regulations and protocols. This unit is designed for individuals working in pathology, healthcare, law enforcement, or workplace safety roles, where the collection and handling of biological specimens for drug testing are critical.​

Throughout this course, students will learn the proper procedures for collecting a variety of specimen types, including urine, saliva, and blood, ensuring that samples are collected without contamination or error. The unit covers important legal and ethical considerations, such as patient consent, chain of custody requirements, and privacy protocols. Emphasis is placed on maintaining specimen integrity and handling samples in a manner that aligns with industry standards for drug testing accuracy. Students will also learn how to operate collection tools and equipment, store specimens securely, and complete necessary documentation to ensure compliance with testing regulations.​

This unit is ideal for professionals in pathology labs, drug rehabilitation centres, law enforcement, and occupational health services, as well as anyone involved in workplace drug testing programs. It is also relevant for healthcare workers responsible for ensuring accurate drug testing results as part of clinical care or legal processes.

​By completing HLTPAT010, students will be equipped to collect specimens for drugs of abuse testing safely and professionally, ensuring reliable results and maintaining adherence to legal and industry guidelines. The knowledge and skills gained in this unit are essential for anyone involved in the drug testing process, contributing to public safety and health outcomes.

​

Units Delivered

The following units will be included in your certificate: HLTPAT010 Collect specimens for drugs of abuse testing

​Note: HLTPAT005 was superseded by HLTPAT010 in December 2025

​

Course Delivery

This course is delivered face-to-face on a monthly basis in our Dubbo training venue and can also be delivered in your workplace for 6 or more participants.

​

Course Duration​

This 1-day course runs for approximately 8 hours (9am - 4pm)

​Tea, coffee, morning tea and lunch are provided

​

Entry Requirements

Entry Requirements - An individual undertaking this course with METEX Solutions Pty Ltd will need to demonstrate the following to be eligible for entry:

• An official form of photo identification (e.g., driver’s licence, passport, or student ID).

• Physical capability to be able to meet the demands of the practical demonstration skills.

To successfully complete this course, students will need to demonstrate the following language, literacy, numeracy and digital (LLND) skills during training and assessment:

• Learning: Learn and follow clear steps when doing something carefully and correctly, especially in private or sensitive situations.

• Reading: read and understand basic instructions, labels, or forms related to health and safety.

• Writing: write clear, short notes or fill in forms to record information properly.

• Oral communication: speak respectfully and clearly with others, especially when the situation is personal or may feel uncomfortable.

• Numeracy: use numbers to record dates, times, or check identification details accurately.

• Digital Literacy: Able to use a mobile phone or basic device to read messages, follow online instructions, complete online forms or access learning resources

​​

Assessment Requirements​

Individuals undertaking this course will be expected to complete both written and practical assessment tasks.

Students will also be required to complete additional supervision of work activities and submit a third-party observation report.

​

Certificate Renewal Requirements

This certificate does not require renewal

​

Learner Rights, Responsibilities and Support

Please note that enrolment to this course is made with METEX Solutions Pty Ltd RTO 46448.

Please refer to the student handbook on METEX website for all details relating to rights and responsibilities including complaints and appeals.

​

Assessment Activities

Performance tasks:

• Collect a urine sample for drugs of abuse testing (non-compliant client)

• Collect an oral fluid sample for drugs of abuse testing (tampered sample - problem-solving)

• Collect a breath sample for drugs of abuse testing

Documentation:

• Chain of custody forms for a urine sample, oral fluid sample, and a breath analysis sample

Theory assessment 

• A written assessment consisting of short-answer and multiple-choice questions

Third-party Observation Reports

• Complete supervised work activities.

• A third-party observation report must be completed by a person currently working in a collection role for at least 18 hours in a fortnight time period.

​

In-House Training

If you have 6 or more people and would like training in your workplace, please contact us.