Ocean Ridge Treatment & Recovery
Detox, Treatment, Recovery
Let’s say you’re at work, and suddenly your supervisor asks if you’ve been drinking. You’re caught off guard—and now you’re wondering: Can they actually give me a breathalyzer? The short answer is yes, but there are some important details to know about your rights, your employer’s policies, and how alcohol testing works on the job.
Whether you’ve consumed alcohol recently, you’re in recovery, or you’re simply curious, let’s walk through what you should expect when it comes to drug and alcohol testing at work.
Yes—private employers are generally allowed to perform alcohol testing, but they have to follow the rules. In most cases, your employer must have:
You can’t usually be randomly breathalyzed out of nowhere unless you’re in a safety-sensitive position, like operating heavy machinery or driving.
A breathalyzer is a small device that analyzes your breath to estimate your blood alcohol concentration (BAC). It measures the amount of ethyl alcohol (the kind found in alcoholic beverages) in your exhaled ambient air and calculates how much is likely in your bloodstream.
There are different types, including semiconductor models (basic) and fuel cell models (more accurate), but even the best ones aren’t perfect—they can give a false positive, especially if you used mouthwash or had a drink recently but didn’t actually consume alcohol in a way that affects your behavior.
If your blood alcohol level is above the company’s legal limit—or if your behavior and test raise red flags—your employer may take disciplinary action. That could mean being sent home, undergoing a formal evaluation, or in some cases, even losing your job.
Some employers will also use other methods, like a blood test, urine sample, or even a saliva swab, to confirm the test result—especially if you challenge it.
It depends on the situation. If your employer has a zero-tolerance alcohol policy, a positive blood alcohol content test can lead to termination—especially if you’re in a high-risk job or the company has had issues with alcohol abuse in the workplace before.
However, if you’re dealing with alcohol use disorder, you may be protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). In some cases, your employer may be required to offer a reasonable accommodation, like time off to get help. This is especially true if you voluntarily come forward before a test and ask for support.
While we’re on the topic of substances—if you’re using medical marijuana, you might assume you’re in the clear. But many employers still have policies that prohibit any kind of drug or alcohol abuse at work, including medical marijuana use, even if it’s legal in your state. If you test positive, your employer might not be obligated to make exceptions.
First of all, know this: you’re not alone. Alcohol abuse, especially when tied to stress, burnout, or mental health challenges, is incredibly common—and treatable. If you’ve had a setback, or you’re worried that your drinking or drug use could affect your job, now is the time to reach out for help.
At Ocean Ridge Recovery in Orange County, CA, we offer addiction treatment that supports real people with real lives and jobs. Whether you’re in need of a treatment facility, outpatient care, or guidance navigating employer policies around alcohol and drug testing, we’re here to help—confidentially and compassionately.
Yes, your employer can ask you to take a breathalyzer, especially if they have reasonable suspicion. But you still have rights, especially if you’re ready to get support. If you’ve been breathalyzed at work—or you’re afraid you might be—take a deep breath, and know that one test doesn’t define your future.
You deserve help. You deserve dignity. And Ocean Ridge is here when you’re ready.
Our medical, clinical, and counseling staffs on site are available 24/7.
Breath alcohol testers estimate a person’s blood alcohol concentration by measuring the amount of alcohol in their lung air when they exhale. It’s a quick and non-invasive way to help determine recent alcohol consumption.
Yes, certain breath fresheners that contain alcohol can cause a short-term spike in breath alcohol results, and vomiting shortly before testing may affect accuracy. In cases like this, a blood sample might be used for confirmation.
While a police officer uses a breathalyzer to enforce the law (like testing a driver after an accident), workplaces use similar devices to enforce company policy. The process may be similar, but the consequences and legal standards are different.
No, drug abuse usually isn’t detected with breath tests. Employers typically use urine or blood samples to detect different substances, since alcohol is the only one reliably measured via breath.
The National Institute on Drug Abuse supports evidence-based approaches for addressing intoxication and substance abuse, including forensic science tools like alcohol testing, especially in safety-sensitive roles.
Detection times vary, but breath alcohol testers can usually pick up alcohol up to 12 hours after your last drink, depending on your metabolism, how much you drank, and the strength of the beverage.
Yes—besides breath tests, there are blood samples, urine tests, and saliva tests. Each method has its strengths and is chosen based on the situation, whether it’s workplace screening or a post-accident investigation.
While it’s rare, a child might be given a breath test in extreme circumstances (like suspected underage drinking), but this would typically involve parental consent and law enforcement, not workplace settings.
Forensic science ensures that alcohol testing methods are accurate, legally sound, and based on proven research—whether used by employers, healthcare providers, or a police officer investigating an accident.
Yes, a person can request a confirmatory blood sample or highlight potential flaws like faulty equipment or the influence of breath fresheners if they believe the results were inaccurate.
Bobby Nassiri is a seasoned Program Director and Business Development Director with over 12 years of experience in the behavioral health industry. Since earning his CADCII counselor certification in 2017, Bobby has been dedicated to improving the lives of individuals through compassionate care and innovative program development. Bobby’s expertise spans a wide range of areas, including strategic business growth, program management, and client counseling. His comprehensive approach to behavioral health ensures that every program he directs is both effective and empathetic, catering to the unique needs of each individual client. Outside of his professional endeavors, Bobby enjoys spending quality time with friends and family, practicing Brazilian jiu jitsu, and attending concerts. His diverse interests and commitment to personal well-being reflect his holistic approach to life and work.
So, you’ve decided to go to rehab. You’ve figured out where you want to go. You’ve figured out how to pay for it. You’ve figured out what to do about your job. Everything is falling into place except…
Failing a drug test can be a stressful and life-changing event, especially if it happens at work. Drug tests are often required by employers to maintain a safe and productive work environment. But if you fail, it could lead to consequences that impact your job and future opportunities.
Whether for mental health or drug abuse, seeing recovery is a courageous and important choice. But a lot of workers put off getting help because they’re concerned that it will affect their jobs.
Going to rehab can be a powerful experience. Here, you’re giving yourself the chance to pick up a new set of tools that will allow you to proactively deal with life, addiction, and cravings. At the same time, moving to rehab can be an incredibly lonely experience as you leave friends, family, and your home behind.
Leaving rehab can be daunting. The transition back into everyday life feels overwhelming for many in early recovery. Sober living homes can provide the vital support and structure needed to navigate this challenging yet crucial stage of your journey.
Addiction recovery is a tough journey, and it often takes a unique approach to tackle the physical and mental challenges of substance abuse. One exciting and effective method making waves in addiction recovery: Jiu Jitsu.
At Ocean Ridge, we understand that the demanding schedules, high-stress environments, and physical demands of a job at BNSF Railway can contribute to substance use issues. Our mission is to provide compassionate, effective treatment tailored to the needs of BNSF Railway employees, helping them reclaim their lives from addiction.
At Ocean Ridge, we get it—balancing a high-pressure career while seeking addiction treatment can feel overwhelming. That’s why our Executive Treatment program is here to make things easier, offering top-tier care in a private, confidential setting.
Addiction doesn’t discriminate—it can impact anyone, no matter their career or position. For professionals, juggling work responsibilities while trying to seek help can feel nearly impossible. You might not have the option to step away from your job entirely to focus on treatment. That’s why finding a rehab tailored to professionals is crucial.
Addiction doesn’t discriminate—it can impact anyone, no matter their career or position. For professionals, juggling work responsibilities while trying to seek help can feel nearly impossible. You might not have the option to step away from your job entirely to focus on treatment.
Now, more than ever, our friends, family, and loved ones need medical help for drug and alcohol abuse.
In fact, in 2020, 40.3 million Americans struggled with a substance use disorder. Our friends, family, and loved ones need help and compassionate care from quality drug and alcohol rehab centers.
The admissions process for Ocean Ridge Treatment and Recovery is quick and convenient. Our Drug Rehab and Alcohol Rehab programs are modern, effective, and based in clinical excellence.
The Georgia Sue house is a gorgeous six-bed facility in Laguna Hills that boasts a warm, upscale environment created to help our clients feel at home during their recovery journey.
The Del Campo House is a six-bed facility in beautiful San Clemente that offers clients both privacy and community. Surrounded by gorgeous natural views, this space provides those seeking help for substance abuse and co-occurring mental health disorders with everything they need to feel relaxed, supported and empowered.
For individuals seeking freedom from substance use, Narcotics Anonymous (NA) offers a free, compassionate and supportive community. With its emphasis on the 12-step framework, NA meetings in Orange County, CA provide recovering addicts with the tools and encouragement they need to achieve and maintain sobriety.
For many, Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) offers a vital foundation for recovering from alcohol addiction. With its supportive community, structured program, and proven success, AA provides alcoholics with the tools and encouragement they need to stop drinking and rebuild their lives.
Drug testing is a common practice in many industries to ensure workplace safety, compliance with regulations, and employee productivity. Employers across a variety of sectors often require drug tests during the hiring process, after an accident, or at random intervals to maintain a safe and drug-free work environment.
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