Some studies have shown that there is a universally recognised need for the development of a valid, rapid and affordable roadside test for the major drugs. In countries with impairment-type legislation, roadside analysis can confirm the suspicion of the police officer and focus the attention on drugs. In countries with 'per se' legislation, screening devices are crucial for the detection of DUID, before further measures (e.g. blood sampling) can be taken. After a call for proposals from Directorate General 7 (Transport) of the European Union, a consortium of 12 contractors (national toxicology institutes, university departments of legal medicines and manufacturers of onsite drug tests) was selected. The project started in January 1999 and has a duration of 21 months. Work package 1 is a literature survey of drugs and medicines that have a detrimental impact on road users' performance. In work package 2, the roadside drug testing equipment for urine, sweat and saliva were inventoried. In work package 3 the operational, user and legal requirements for roadside testing equipment were determined with a questionnaire. In work package 4, several devices will be evaluated in 8 countries. The experience gained in the project will allow to make recommendations for the use and further development of roadside drug testing.
Abstract