We administer Breath Alcohol Tests in our clinic! A Breath Alcohol Test is used to measure how much alcohol is currently in the blood. Many employers use this method as a pre-employment protocol or post-accident precautionary. Blood Alcohol Tests are reliable and very accurate. The test shows the current levels of intoxication but it cannot show past alcohol usage. In contrast, when testing for illegal drugs with a Urine Drug Screen you can determine if past drug use had occurred.
How does the test work: The person being tested for alcohol use will blow into the given breath alcohol device. The number that appears on the result screen is known as the Blood Alcohol Concentration. (BAC) This shows the level of alcohol in the person’s blood at the exact time the test was taken. The test does not cause any pain or discomfort, and is usually uneventful and brief.
When do I need a breath alcohol test?Many companies who require breath alcohol testing make it known upon hire that this is protocol. Most employers use alcohol testing under specific circumstances. Which can include but are not limited to:
- Reasonable suspicion
- Post-accident -suspected alcohol use on the job that cause property or personal damage
- Random testing
United states DOT Required Alcohol Testing
The United States Department of Transportation require mandatory alcohol and drug testing. This testing includes people who operate machinery such as trucking, aviation, pipeline, railroad, and employees who provide safe work transportation to the public. The United States Department of Transportation regulations mandate that a 0.04 positive alcohol test demands removal of employees from driving or fulfilling safety sensitive tasks.
Who administers the test? When you come to our clinic we have Certified Breath Alcohol Technicians on-site. This is a person who instructs and assists people through the Breath Alcohol Testing process. This person plays an essential part in completion of this test as they are knowledgeable and proficient with the testing procedures and administration. Our technicians have completed a Breath Alcohol Test qualification training program created by the US Department of Transportation and are knowledgeable in requirements and guidelines. Our staff will be able to make sure your test is administered correctly and with ease.
