The IPC’s "Doping Control Guide for Testing Athletes in Para Sport" has been launched just over a month before the Paralympics are scheduled to open ©IPC

A doping control guide - which aims to "dispel misconceptions" over testing Para-athletes - has been launched by the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) prior to the start of next month's Games here. 

The IPC’s Doping Control Guide for Testing Athletes in Para Sport looks to assist anti-doping organisations and others working in the field collecting samples from competitors.

It includes tips on how to engage with Para-athletes, information about the types of impairments that are eligible and advice on how to manage the sample collection process when modifications are required.

The IPC claim that the guide is aligned with Annex A - Modifications for Athletes with Impairments of the World Anti-Doping Agency’s International Standard for Testing and Investigations.  

"Doping control officers may experience some trepidation ahead of testing Para athletes - because they may be unsure of what to expect or how to navigate the sample collection process in a way that respects the athlete, whilst also safeguarding the integrity of the sample," said James Sclater, anti-doping director for the IPC.

"This guide aims to dispel misconceptions that may exist about Para athletes and provide practical advice to help ensure a safe, robust testing experience for both the athlete and the doping control officer."

James Sclater, anti-doping director for the IPC, claims there are
James Sclater, anti-doping director for the IPC, claims there are "misconceptions" over testing Para athletes ©Getty Images

The guide includes an appendix with an overview about the classification system and the different sport classes included in the Paralympic Summer and Winter Games competition programmes.

"Having a basic understanding of the type of disability and the activity limitation the athlete might experience as a result can help inform the doping control officer’s approach and the type of modifications that might be required," said Sclater.

The IPC say the guide can also be used as a training resource and best practice model for anti-doping organisations, National Paralympic Committees and individuals with a vested interest in Para sport.

"Para-athletes are exposed to the same risks and temptations as able-bodied athletes and the IPC’s seeks to remove barriers and support the quality of testing and education programmes across the Paralympic sports," said Sclater.

"The IPC looks forward to the first official use of this resource as part of the anti-doping programme at Tokyo 2020."

The full guide can be read here.