Oral Alcohol Test: Definition, How It Works, & Understanding the Results

The oral alcohol test is one of the methods of detecting alcohol use and impairment. It is a sophisticated tool, offering rapid and non-invasive means to gauge blood alcohol levels through oral fluid samples. It works by collecting saliva samples through a mouth swab and analysing it using various technologies to determine the presence and concentration of alcohol in the body. The results are usually available within minutes or hours, depending on the type of analysis.

There are many types of alcohol testing. A common method is the breath test using a breathalyser device. It is quick and non-invasive. Another type is the urine test, which can detect a wide range of substances. A saliva test, on the other hand, offers an alternative to alcohol screening when other options are not available. This article will focus on oral testing for alcohol, including how it works, and understanding the results.

What is Oral Alcohol Testing?

An oral alcohol test is a method of detecting ethanol or metabolites using saliva samples. The test is applicable in situations where a quick and reliable assessment of alcohol consumption is necessary. For example, several workplaces use saliva testing as part of their drug and alcohol testing programs. Additionally, it can provide a cost-efficient way to monitor intoxication levels.

The kit consists of an oral fluid collection device to obtain saliva from the inside of the mouth. Then, a screening apparatus contains a solution that reacts with alcohol in the sample. This method is commonly performed in onsite testing to quickly determine if an individual has consumed alcohol within a certain time frame.

Another method would involve sending the specimens to a laboratory for analysis. It involves using more advanced techniques to quantify the alcohol concentrations accurately. It is a procedure that is essential in confirmatory testing to validate the results from the initial screening. This process helps reduce the likelihood of false positives.

Benefits of Oral Testing

• It is a quick and convenient way of detecting alcohol in the system.
• Oral tests can provide immediate results, allowing for timely and appropriate actions to be taken.
• It is a reliable way to determine recent alcohol use.
• Saliva testing helps comply with occupational health and safety requirements and regulations.
• It is useful in various settings, such as workplaces, law enforcement, healthcare facilities, and even personal use.
• Testing kits are portable and ready to use, allowing for alcohol screening virtually anywhere.
• Oral test kits are often more affordable than laboratory methods, providing organisations with a cost-effective option to test for alcohol.

How Oral Alcohol Testing Works

Oral alcohol testing uses immunoassay screens to detect ethanol, the primary psychoactive ingredient in alcoholic beverages. Ethanol molecules enter saliva glands through blood circulation. This process occurs within a few minutes after consumption. Hence, it can provide a reliable indication of recent alcohol intake. During the test, the individual or a trained collector brushes the inner check with an absorbent swab or pad.

Immunoassay screening uses enzyme-based reagents that react with ethanol. This reaction produces a visible marker, such as a colour change or lines, to indicate the presence of alcohol. The intensity of the colour change corresponds to the amount of alcohol in saliva. Typically, saliva tests can measure the Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) from 0.00 to 0.30%. The higher the BAC level, the more pronounced the colour change will be.

Another technique is the Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) tandem. It is a highly sensitive technology involving separating different components of the sample based on their molecular weight and chemical properties. The separated components pass into a mass spectrometer, which ionises the molecules and measures the mass-to-charge ratio of each ion.

Detection Window

The detection period of alcohol in saliva is minutes after intake and up to 12 hours afterwards. It can vary according to various factors, such as the amount of consumption and individual metabolism. In general, the more a person consumes alcohol, the longer it stays in the system.

Immediately after consumption, the concentration of alcohol in the system rapidly increases. It then gradually decreases over time as the body metabolises and eliminates the alcohol. Additionally, the detection window may be shorter for individuals who have a faster metabolism and longer for those with a slower metabolism.

Understanding the Results of Oral Alcohol Tests

The results of the alcohol test may depend on the kind of testing equipment. Most rapid test kits produce qualitative results when they detect the presence of alcohol. Moreover, some specialised devices can estimate the BAC at certain cut-off points. The common range of BAC is 0.00%, 0.02%, 0.04%, 0.08%, and 0.30%.

To understand the results of the oral alcohol test, the individual compares the results to a colour chart indicator. It is essential to read the instructions before use to ensure the validity of the testing procedure. It includes using a chart indicator as a guide to interpret the results accurately. Likewise, it is important to read the test results within a specified time frame.

A test is negative if it does not detect alcohol. On the other hand, any amount of alcohol in saliva is considered non-negative. In most cases, it is advisable to undergo further tests to verify the results of the preliminary results. A Medical Review Officer (MRO) re-examines the sample to determine if the presence of alcohol is due to actual intake or incidental exposures.

What Happens After a Positive Result?

When a preliminary screen is non-negative, it is essential to send the samples to a lab for further testing. Medical facilities use advanced methods like GC-MS to conclude a positive result. As such, there are potential consequences that may follow, depending on the context of testing.

In workplaces, a positive result may lead to disciplinary actions, including warnings, suspension, or termination. A workplace alcohol policy outlines these consequences. An employer may also offer treatment for those dealing with substance abuse. In roadside screening, a positive result can result in legal penalties, such as fines, licence suspension, probation, or even imprisonment.

Conclusion

An oral alcohol test is a valuable tool in assessing recent alcohol consumption and impairment levels of an individual. The test involves collecting a saliva sample through a mouth swab and then analysing it using various technologies. Additionally, it offers several advantages, such as quick results, non-invasive collection procedures, and ease of administration. It also helps companies to comply with certain legislation. Therefore, individuals and organisations can make informed decisions, allowing for timely intervention or risk prevention.

Understanding the results of the alcohol test is crucial. Fortunately, most test kits have clear instructions to interpret the outcome. However, it is essential to note that saliva tests have limitations and may not provide precise or accurate measurements of the BAC. If the initial screen is non-negative, it is vital to undergo further testing for confirmation. A positive result can have serious implications, including legal penalties. Overall, alcohol testing aims to promote safety through awareness of alcohol consumption levels.