In addition to mandating drug testing in Wichita, KS, some local businesses may test an employee’s blood alcohol concentration to ensure they’re not under the influence. Companies could test an impaired worker’s breath or require a blood screening. What’s the difference between the two?
Explore what it means to take a breath vs. a blood alcohol test as part of your job, and how the practice impacts you.
Why Would Your Employer Require Alcohol Testing?
You might think that chemical testing for your blood alcohol concentration is only necessary if a police officer suspects you of driving under the influence. While employers may not conduct field sobriety tests, they can follow other law enforcement procedures, such as requesting a breathalyzer or blood alcohol test.
Chemical testing may be a part of your company’s policy. Depending on the nature of your job, working while under the influence could be extremely dangerous. A business reserves the right to check your blood alcohol concentration if you’re noticeably impaired.
For instance, suppose a delivery driver is about to start their shift, but their supervisor notices them slurring their words and appearing disoriented. They could prohibit the driver from getting behind the wheel of a work vehicle until they pass a breathalyzer test.
Operating machinery or engaging in other dangerous jobs while under the influence can put yourself and others in harm’s way. Employers often require chemical testing to ensure the safety of their workers and the people they serve.
How Breath and Blood Alcohol Tests Differ
Taking a workplace breath test versus a blood alcohol test is fairly simple, although the procedures are quite different. A breath test requires you to blow on a device until it registers your blood alcohol concentration. You’ll receive the results within moments, though some may challenge the test’s accuracy.
Breathalyzer results may yield false positives or provide incorrect readings due to several factors. The person administering the test must follow the correct protocols for an accurate reading. Recalibrating the device is also essential for reducing false positives.
Blood tests usually have a lower margin of error. However, they are more time-consuming. If your employer requires it, you will need to visit a lab where a phlebotomist will take a blood sample.
The results may take a few days to arrive once the lab receives the sample.
Breath vs. Blood Alcohol Tests: Which Are Better for Employers?
Would your workplace benefit from giving employees alcohol tests? If so, you might be wondering which route to take. Both options have their pros and cons, which makes deciding on a breath vs. blood alcohol test very difficult.
Your best option would be to work with a workplace drug testing partner, such as WorkSafe. Experts can visit your business and provide a range of services to ensure your peace of mind.
A professional can administer a breathalyzer test on the spot to detect traces of alcohol in your employee’s system. They help ensure accurate results by properly calibrating the equipment and instructing employees on how to provide an adequate sample.
If you prefer blood testing, the results may be more accurate, but they take longer to produce. Discuss your options with a trusted drug testing partner to see which one is best for your business.
Signs of Impairment That May Warrant Workplace Alcohol Testing
Many employers require urine drug tests as a condition of employment. Others could conduct random drug tests as part of their company policy. But when it comes to alcohol testing, business leaders usually take action when a worker appears impaired.
It doesn’t matter whether you implement a breath or blood alcohol test. Either option is a good way to confirm one’s blood alcohol concentration. Testing may be necessary if an employee exhibits the following signs:
- Slurred speech
- Slow reaction time
- Poor perception or reasoning
- Unusual emotions or behavior
- Lack of coordination
Intoxication in the workplace can be extremely hazardous, particularly in the healthcare, construction, and manufacturing industries.
WorkSafe Makes Workplace Alcohol and Drug Testing Seamless
If an employee exhibits the telltale signs of substance abuse, you may wonder whether to require a breath vs. blood alcohol test. Regardless of which option you choose, WorkSafe makes the process straightforward. We’re the leading provider of workplace safety and injury management services in Wichita.
Our mobile unit is your go-to source for workplace breath, urine, saliva, and hair follicle testing. To learn more about our drug and alcohol testing solutions, connect with us online or call (316) 262-8800.