Breath Alcohol Testing
Drink Responsibly, Test Responsibly
What Is Alcohol Testing?
With the use of evidential breath testing (EBT) devices, we can measure how much alcohol is currently in the bloodstream. The legal limit establishing impairment while driving is .08.
The Department of Transportation guidelines mandate that if an employee has a .04 positive test, then it requires the removal of the employee from driving or other safety-sensitive tasks. If it is a .02 result, under DOT regulations, then it requires the removal from tasks for a certain period.
Today, mandatory alcohol and drug testing is a requirement of the United States Department of Transportation for some occupations and industries. This mandatory testing includes trucking, aviation, maritime, pipeline, railroad, and transit employees in safety-sensitive occupations.
Alcohol consumption is completely legal, it is highly accessible, and it is socially acceptable. For these reasons, it is one of the top substances which cause a failed drug/alcohol test in the United States.
Some subjects cannot complete a BAT test because of health issues. Subjects that are heavy smokers, are asthmatic, or have other respiratory issues – may be unable to complete the test. The BAT test requires subjects to blow a steady stream of air into the EBT device. Subjects with respiratory issues will then receive a strip test or a saliva test. This will give the same results as a breath alcohol test.
When to Use Workplace Breath Alcohol Testing
Employers who are not subject to DOT regulations may also utilize workplace breath alcohol testing under certain circumstances.
Probable Cause BAT Testing
Testing on a probable cause basis – also known as reasonable suspicion – typically involves testing an individual who has demonstrated behavior that gives the employer reasonable suspicion of impairment.
BAT Testing for Workplace Incidents & Accidents
Testing after an accident in the workplace, whether such an incident led to damage or injury to an employee or others, is typically used to determine whether alcohol was a factor in the accident or incident.
Random Breath Alcohol Testing
Many organizations conduct arbitrary employee alcohol testing from time to time. Typically, these onsite, workplace breath alcohol tests are not scheduled or announced in advance, to ensure the element of surprise.
No matter what your onsite BAT needs might be, Butterfield Testing Solutions has the extensive knowledge and expertise you need. Contact us now to learn more about our options for workplace alcohol breath testing.
The Responsibility Of An Employer
The DOT holds employers accountable for conducting drug and alcohol testing. To learn more about what an employer is responsible for click here. To better serve our clients, Butterfield Testing Solutions conducts the ethyl glucuronide test (ETG), the Breath Alcohol Test (BAT), and the saliva strip test. We make various options available because of our clients’ alcohol testing needs.
Call Butterfield Testing Solutions today to schedule an alcohol test or to ask us about our TPA services that can help you stay in compliance with the DOT.
How long does it take to do a urine drug test?
5-10 Min.
How long does it take to get results from a urine drug test?
Instantly
Results are immediate for the BAT test and the saliva strip test. It takes about 24-48 hours for the ETG (urine test).
Detection Window Period
Within 24 Hrs.
How An Alcohol EBT Test Is Done
Step 1
The collector fills out paperwork and has the subject give consent with a signature.
Step 2
The collector prepares the Evidential Breath Testing (EBT) device. The collector then proceeds to explain instructions to the subject on how to properly complete the test without error.
Step 3
The subject blows a steady stream of air into the EBT device until it beeps.
Step 4
The EBT device records the result and a printout is affixed to the appropriate paperwork. Subject receives a copy of the test result
Step 5
Results are sent to the employer and the employer’s Third Party Administrator if applicable
Breath Alcohol Testing Considerations
When performed correctly, onsite BAT testing helps ensure prompt, accurate results that are admissible in legal proceedings. To ensure consistent, reliable results, our breath alcohol testing technicians use only those testing devices that have been approved by the U.S. Department of Transportation.
Approved devices – known as Evidential Breath Testing or EBT devices – accurately detect the level of alcohol in the body. These devices must have the capability to accurately distinguish alcohol from acetone, even at a low level of concentration. This helps to eliminate false positive results.
BODT technicians can conduct testing whenever and wherever you might have the need. Our onsite blood alcohol testing in Oregon is convenient and accurate, providing immediate results. Contact us today to learn more.