Identification Test for Alcohol
04 November, 2021
Alcoholic drinks are one of the most widely used recreational substances globally. Many people enjoy alcohol as it induces euphoria and reduces anxiety. It contains ethanol which is a type of alcohol that acts as a depressant. If taken in higher doses or long-term use, the person can develop an addiction, severe heart and liver conditions; and even premature death. When a person’s alcohol dependency increases, this may cause problems at home, school, work, or public places. The person may have to undergo several identification test for alcohol, especially in the workplace or by authorities.
Types of Identification Test for Alcohol
There are different types of alcohol testing, all of which can determine the presence of alcohol in a person’s body through different specimens given. The most common types of identification test for alcohol are through breath, blood, urine, saliva, and hair. Breath, urine, and saliva test are the easiest and fastest ways to know a person’s breath alcohol concentration (BAC).
Law enforcement often uses breath tests through a handheld device called breathalyzers. By blowing through a mouthpiece, the breathalyzer can give the BAC reading instantly. It can detect alcohol in your breath within 15 minutes of drinking alcohol. A blood test is the most invasive method, but it is the most accurate since it measures alcohol content directly from the blood. On the other hand, a hair identification test for alcohol can confirm a person’s record of alcohol substance use and can shed light on possible addiction problems. Hair specimen is tested by examining the Etg (Ethyl Glucuronide) and FAEE (Fatty Acid Ethyl Esters) markers in your hair. It cannot determine the blood alcohol content, but it can detect alcohol consumption for the past 90 days.
Importance
The combination of identification test for alcohol is better than a standalone test. For example, doing a breath, urine, or saliva test is a preliminary step in corroborating possible substance abuse by an employee in a workplace. Police officers likewise use a breath test initially. If the BAC readings are high, they may have to order the concerned individual for blood test to confirm a positive screening result. Testing for alcohol is not only to out individuals who have high blood alcohol content but also to treat addiction or disorders. It is implemented to ensure the safety of one’s health as a top priority and minimize potential hazards in the workplace or on the road.
Breathalysers New Zealand offers high-quality BACtrack breathalyzers with police-grade accuracy available at our products page here.
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