Definition - What does Initial Validity Test mean?
An initial validity test is the first examination a urine drug sample undergoes to determine if the specimen has been adulterated, substituted, or diluted. If the specimen fails the initial validity testing, this means that the sample is not fit for drug testing because it shows abnormal physical characteristics, abnormal levels in properties of the urine, or unknown substances are preventing the testing from being conducted.
SureHire explains Initial Validity Test
An initial validity test is the first examination utilized to screen urine samples for signs of adulteration, substitution, or dilution. Adulteration is the addition of a chemical substance such as ammonia, lye, or vinegar to the urine specimen after it has been collected. Substitution entails replacing one's urine with a substance such as synthetic urine, urine from another individual, water, or a sports drink. Dilution often involves consuming large amounts of water, tea, or a detoxification drink before the urine sample is given. In an initial validity test, the laboratory looks at specific characteristics of the urine including pH, specific gravity, and creatinine to help determine if the sample is valid or not. If the specimen fails the initial validity testing, this signifies that the specimen is invalid for drug testing either due to the presence of an unidentified agent that has interfered with testing, or because abnormal characteristics have been noted in the sample.
