If you are managing a WHS program or testing at home, the codes on a testing device can look like a chemistry exam.
To ensure your site is compliant with Australian Standard AS/NZS 4760:2019, it is vital to understand exactly what substances are being screened. Below is the breakdown of the standard substance abbreviations used on our 9-Panel SalivaTracer™, tailored for Australian workplace risks.
The Standard Panels (The "Big 7")
These 7 panels cover the most common illicit and prescription risks found in Australian industries (Mining, Construction, Transport).
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MET (Methamphetamine)
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Common Terms: Ice, Crystal, Shard.
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Screening Focus: Highly potent stimulants. This is currently the highest-risk substance in Australian heavy industry due to its impact on aggression and risk-taking.
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THC (Cannabis)
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Common Terms: Marijuana, Pot, Weed.
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Screening Focus: Cognitive impairment and slowed reaction times. Unlike urine tests (history), saliva targets recent use (fitness for work).
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COC (Cocaine)
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Common Terms: Coke, Blow.
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Screening Focus: Short-term stimulants that cause erratic behavior followed by severe fatigue ("the crash").
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OPI (Opiates)
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Common Terms: Heroin, Smack, Codeine, Morphine.
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Screening Focus: Central nervous system depressants that slow reaction times.
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AMP (Amphetamines)
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Common Terms: Speed, Goey.
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Screening Focus: Stimulants similar to Meth but chemically distinct.
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BZO (Benzodiazepines)
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Common Terms: Benzos, Valium, Xanax.
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Screening Focus: Prescription sedatives. A major concern for "fit for work" assessments as they mimic the effects of alcohol (drowsiness/coordination loss).
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OXY (Oxycodone)
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Common Terms: Endone, OxyContin.
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Screening Focus: Semi-synthetic opioids. These are often not detected by standard OPI panels, requiring this specific strip for accurate screening.
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The "Plus 2" (Why choose a 9-Panel?)
Our upgraded 9-Panel kits include two extra strips to target "synthetic" and "party" drugs that standard kits miss.
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MDMA (Ecstasy)
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Common Terms: E, Pills, Caps.
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Screening Focus: While often cross-reactive with MET, a dedicated MDMA line ensures specific detection of this psychoactive substance.
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K2 (Synthetic Cannabis)
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Common Terms: K2, Spice, Chronic.
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Screening Focus: Synthetic compounds sprayed onto plant matter. These are dangerous because they are often invisible to standard THC strips. Screening for K2 is essential for zero-tolerance sites.
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