Breathalyzer vs Fingernail Alcohol Test

Road and workplace accidents in New Zealand happen mainly due to unmonitored alcohol consumption. Driving or working under the influence (DUI) of alcohol poses safety hazards on the road and at work. When you consume alcohol, it alters your mood and impairs your senses. Thus, it makes operating a vehicle or machinery difficult and increases the chances of accidents. Law enforcement may stop you on the road if they suspect you of drink-driving. Police officers use police breathalyzers to screen for alcohol through your breath. Breathalyzers like BACtrack devices can measure the blood alcohol content (BAC) through your breath samples. Consequently, you can face criminal charges or penalties if driving with a BAC beyond the legal limit (0.05%). Law enforcement may also require an additional blood, hair, or fingernail alcohol test to determine your BAC level accurately.

Fingernail testing is a highly stable alternative to drug and alcohol detection. Alcohol is a substance that penetrates the body passing through the blood vessels. The blood transports portions of alcohol in different body parts, including the heart, lungs, hair, and nails. Like hair, fingernails trap alcohol from the blood vessels into the keratin fibre. Additionally, alcohol can stay in the nails for up to 90 days. Therefore, fingernail alcohol testing is ideal for identifying alcohol usage as it has a longer detection window. However, a fingernail test could not give an accurate month-by-month breakdown, unlike a hair sample test.

Differences Between Breathalyzer and Fingernail Alcohol Tests

On the other hand, a breathalyzer can conveniently measure your BAC level through your breath. The alcohol that goes into the lungs exits the body every time you exhale. Therefore, a breathalyzer like BACtrack can trace alcohol within a few minutes after consumption. A breathalyzer can detect alcohol for up to twelve hours, depending on the amount of consumption. BACtrack breathalyzers utilize advanced fuel cell sensor technology that precisely oxidizes the alcohol in the breath. A breathalyzer is an ideal device to screen for alcohol on a road or workplace accident. Unlike fingernail alcohol tests, anyone can check their BAC through a breathalyzer. It is small, light, and easy to operate. Breath testing with BACtrack devices are also quick, and it only takes about 10 – 15 seconds to process the results.

Innovations in drug and alcohol detection make it easy for industries to identify substance usage. For example, a breathalyzer test and a fingernail alcohol test can effectively identify alcohol use and drinking patterns in workplaces. If you want quick and reliable alcohol monitoring, it is best to use a breathalyzer. All you must do is provide a strong, firm blow into the device, and it will have your results ready within a few seconds. BACtrack breathalyzers are ideal for personal and workplace use. Additionally, breathalyzers can drastically help with monitoring your alcohol consumption. It is best to check your BAC level before driving or working to ensure safety at all times.

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