COMMON USES FOR ETG TESTING
ETG testing may be requested for a variety of monitoring and compliance programs, including:
- Court-ordered alcohol testing
- Probation and parole requirements
- Return-to-duty programs
- Follow-up alcohol testing
- Substance abuse treatment programs
- Employer alcohol testing
- Professional monitoring programs
The appropriate testing program depends on the requirements of the requesting employer, agency, court, or treatment provider.
Detection Window
ETG testing can generally detect alcohol use for up to approximately 80 hours after consumption, although detection times vary based on individual metabolism, the amount of alcohol consumed, hydration, and other biological factors.
Because ETG measures a metabolite rather than alcohol itself, it provides evidence of recent alcohol consumption even after alcohol is no longer present in the bloodstream or breath.
What an ETG Test Detects
ETG testing detects ethyl glucuronide (ETG), a metabolite created when the body processes alcohol.
It does not detect illegal drugs or prescription medications. Instead, it is specifically designed to identify recent alcohol consumption.