The two main types of alcohol testing
- Breath Alcohol Testing (BAT) — measures current blood alcohol concentration using an evidential breath testing device, performed by a certified BAT technician. This is the DOT standard for on-duty alcohol testing.
- EtG / EtS testing — a urine test that detects ethyl glucuronide, a byproduct of alcohol, for up to roughly 80 hours after drinking. Common in court, probation and abstinence-monitoring programs where any recent drinking matters.
When each is used
BAT is the right tool for workplace and DOT situations where the question is “are they impaired right now?” — pre-duty, random, post-accident, and reasonable suspicion. EtG is the right tool when the question is “have they had any alcohol in the last few days?” — the kind of monitoring courts and diversion programs require.
Fast, certified, and documented
BAT results are available immediately with proper documentation; EtG results come back from the lab quickly. Everything is collected under proper procedure so results stand up for employment decisions, DOT compliance, or a courtroom.
