Testing and Investigations

The current version of the International Standard for Testing and Investigations (ISTI) went into force on 1 January 2023.

The ISTI, which is mandatory for all World Anti-Doping Code (Code) Signatories to implement, serves two purposes:

• Outlining what is required for planning intelligent and effective testing while maintaining the integrity of samples until they are delivered to the laboratory for analysis
• Establishing mandatory standards for conducting efficient and effective investigations into Anti-Doping Rule Violations (ADRVs)

The ISTI (including its annexes) establishes mandatory standards for:

• Test distribution planning (including collection and use of athlete whereabouts information)
• Notification of athletes
• Preparing for and conducting sample collection
• Security/post-test administration of samples and documentation
• Transportation of samples to WADA-Accredited Laboratories for analysis.

Like the Code, the ISTI has been drafted giving due consideration to the principles of respect for human rights, proportionality, and other applicable legal principles.

Guidelines

There are five Guidelines that accompany the ISTI:

• Guidelines for Implementing an Effective Testing Program
• Guidelines for Sample Collection
• Guidelines for Sample Collection Personnel
• Guidelines for Gathering Information and Sharing Intelligence
• Guidelines for Testing During a Pandemic

The Guidelines, which are not mandatory for Anti-Doping Organizations (ADOs) to implement, provide greater detail and practical guidance on how to implement areas of the ISTI.