STI Testing and Safety Protocols: Adult Industry Health Standards

Understanding the PASS System

PASS (Performer Availability Screening Services) is the adult industry's performer health database. It verifies STI testing status and shares results with producers while maintaining privacy. Performers get tested every 14 days at approved facilities. Results are uploaded to the PASS database within hours. Producers verify PASS status before shoots to ensure all performers have current, negative tests. This system has dramatically reduced STI transmission in professional adult film production.

Required Tests and Testing Schedule

• ●Testing Panel: HIV (4th generation or RNA test), Syphilis, Gonorrhea (oral and genital), Chlamydia (oral and genital), Hepatitis B and C (initial test, then annual)
• ●Testing Frequency: Every 14 days maximum - tests expire 14 days after collection
• ●Additional Tests: Some producers require Trichomoniasis testing
• ●First-Time Testing: Complete full panel including Hepatitis tests
• ●Ongoing Testing: Standard panel every 14 days, annual Hepatitis retest
• ●After Positive Result: Follow medical treatment, retest as directed, provide clearance before returning to work

Approved Testing Facilities

Only PASS-approved facilities provide accepted testing. Talent Testing Service (TTS) is the gold standard with multiple Los Angeles locations and some other major cities. CET (Cutting Edge Testing) is PASS-approved with several locations. Tests from your regular doctor or health clinic won't be accepted unless they're PASS-affiliated. Testing costs $120-$180 for the full panel. Results typically return within 24-48 hours and upload automatically to PASS database. Always verify a facility is PASS-approved before testing.

How to Get Your First PASS

• ●Create PASS Account: Register at performerpass.com with valid ID
• ●Find Approved Facility: Locate TTS or CET clinic in your area
• ●Schedule Appointment: Book testing appointment (walk-ins available at some locations)
• ●Bring Valid ID: Two forms of government-issued identification
• ●Complete Full Panel: Get all required tests including Hepatitis
• ●Pay Testing Fee: $120-$180 depending on location and panel
• ●Check PASS Portal: Results upload automatically within 24-48 hours
• ●Download Green Sheet: If negative, download your current status for producers

Reading Your Test Results

Green status means all tests are negative and current - you're cleared to work. Yellow status indicates tests are approaching expiration (12-14 days old) - schedule your next test soon. Red status means tests have expired (over 14 days), positive result detected, or results pending - you cannot work until green. Always verify your status before accepting bookings. Never work with anything other than green status - this protects you, scene partners, and the entire industry.

If You Test Positive

• ●Stop Working Immediately: Do not perform until treated and cleared
• ●Seek Medical Treatment: Follow your doctor's treatment protocol completely
• ●Notify Recent Partners: Inform recent scene partners so they can get tested
• ●PASS Notification: PASS will alert performers who worked with you recently
• ●Complete Treatment: Follow all medication instructions and attend follow-up appointments
• ●Retest for Clearance: Get retested after treatment to confirm negative status
• ●Return to Work: Only work again after receiving green PASS status
• ●No Shame: STIs are medical conditions, not moral failings - focus on health and treatment

Additional Safety Practices

Beyond testing, protect your health by communicating boundaries clearly before scenes, inspecting scene partners visually for visible symptoms, using barriers if anything seems concerning, staying sober during shoots (no drugs or alcohol), maintaining good hygiene practices, getting regular medical check-ups beyond PASS testing, considering HPV and Hepatitis B vaccines, trusting your instincts (you can always stop a scene), and having your own condoms available if you prefer barrier protection.

Barrier Protection and Condom Use

While most mainstream adult production is "condoms optional" due to PASS testing, you always have the right to use barrier protection. Some producers/studios require condoms. All amateur and fetish content typically uses condoms. You can request condoms for any scene regardless of testing status. European productions generally require condoms. Never let anyone pressure you to work without protection if you're uncomfortable. Your health and comfort are more important than any scene.

Testing Costs and Budgeting

Professional performers should budget $240-$360 monthly for testing (2 tests at $120-$180 each). This is a business expense - deductible on taxes. Some agencies reimburse testing costs or provide direct billing. High-volume performers might test weekly for more booking opportunities, increasing costs. Consider testing an investment in your career and health, not just an expense. Never skip testing to save money - working without current status puts everyone at risk and can end your career.

PASS Privacy and Confidentiality

Your medical information is confidential. PASS shows only your current status (green/yellow/red), not specific test results. Producers can verify your status but cannot see detailed results. You control who can check your PASS. Only you and approved producers can access your status. PASS alerts are sent only to performers with direct exposure risk. Medical details remain between you and testing facility. This system balances industry safety needs with performer privacy rights.

International and Amateur Work

PASS is primarily used in US mainstream production. European shoots often have different protocols (typically require condoms). Amateur/OnlyFans content doesn't require PASS but smart creators still test regularly. International travel for shoots may require local testing or accepting different protocols. Always research testing requirements for different markets. Some performers maintain PASS even for primarily OnlyFans/amateur work as professional standard. Never compromise on testing regardless of content type or market.

Common Testing Mistakes to Avoid

• ●Letting Tests Expire: Track expiration dates and schedule proactively
• ●Using Non-Approved Facilities: Only PASS-approved tests are accepted
• ●Working While Pending: Wait for results before booking shoots
• ●Incomplete Testing: Make sure all required tests are included in panel
• ●Ignoring Symptoms: Get tested immediately if you notice any symptoms
• ●Not Updating PASS: Ensure results upload correctly and verify status
• ●Working Without Verification: Always check scene partners' PASS status
• ●Skipping Follow-Up: After positive results, complete all treatment and retesting