EtG test strips are used for detecting the presence of alcohol in a person’s breath. The test is simple: a person breathes into the sample cup, and all but one sensor must be covered with blood or saliva. If alcohol is detected in the breath, it turns purple—all other sensors will remain white. This article provides some basic information on etg strips, how they work, and methods that can increase your chances of success. It also highlights why this method has become so popular among law enforcement officials today as an alternative to blood tests.
First, what are etg test strips or alcohol-testing strips?
EtG test strips are used in a variety of ways. For instance, it can be used to detect the presence of alcohol in a breath sample. The results indicate whether alcohol is present in the breath and the level at which it is present. (Many other blood tests can also give similar results for blood alcohol content (BAC). However, we will focus on EtG.) EtG strips come in various forms and formats. All EtG tests have similar capabilities and results, but variations in format are made to suit different purposes. They are commonly used for DUI DWI testing but can also be used for saliva, urine, and blood testing.
EtG test strips have become more popular than blood tests because they are easier to administer and detect alcohol in a person’s breath sample faster. Blood test results take longer to process because a lab technician must test blood in a controlled environment. Breath testing is less invasive and lets the officer decide when to test for alcohol c60 supplement.
How to use EtG test strips?
Step 1: Remove the backing from the sample cup, making sure not to touch the EtG sensors with your fingers.
Step 2: Remove the protective film from each sensor, exposing a small amount of fluid at the end. This liquid forms an electrical connection between the sensors and the sample cup to detect alcohol in someone’s breath.
Step 3: Blow into the sample cup for about 5 seconds and ensure all EtG sensors are covered with your saliva or blood. Breathe into each sensor until you are sure it is covered—do not cover each one individually, as this will slow down performance time. The device will turn purple (or change color) if alcohol is detected in your breath, with all other sensors remaining white.
Step 4: Wait 2-3 minutes for the result. To get the most accurate results, wait this amount of time so EtG can reach a state of equilibrium between your body and the sample cup. You can test yourself to see if you have alcohol on your breath (without using the test strip) at this time.
Step 5: Compare the results to alcohol threshold levels, varying by country or state. These are usually indicated on the packaging. EtG results are not legally admissible in court; they are used as evidence when a person refuses a blood or urine test and is convicted based on their breath sample.
When will law enforcement use EtG test strips?
Law enforcement officials will use EtG test strips when they suspect an individual has been drinking alcohol excessively or driving under the influence of alcohol. Determining what constitutes “excessive drinking” is up to each state. However, in most states, a BAC level of 0.08% or higher is considered the legal limit for driving under alcohol. If you are arrested and suspected of DUI DWI, law enforcement will use an EtG strip to obtain an on-site breath sample from you. If a number above a certain threshold is determined after measuring the alcohol concentration in your breath, you can be arrested and taken into custody while they investigate further.
