The Cannabis Breathalyzer Has Arrived. Here's What Employers Need to Know.

For years, we've faced a frustrating gap in drug testing technology. Our urine and hair tests could confirm that someone used marijuana, but not when. I might see a positive result and have no way to know if it reflected use right before work or use days earlier on personal time.

As an employer, you don't want to punish someone for what they did legally on their own weekend. You want to know if they used on the job or just before clocking in. The testing tech simply could not distinguish that—until now.

Labs have now developed a breathalyzer to measure recent cannabis use. Thee key insight is that THC remains detectable in breath for only a few hours after use. By capturing that short window, their test can isolate use much closer to the workplace.

Now, let's be clear: no device can measure impairment directly. Testing can tell you whether someone has used recently, but not how affected they are in that moment. That's why technology is no substitute for clear policies and trained supervisors. A test alone cannot determine fitness for work.

But I believe a cannabis breathalyzer, used properly, could be a fairer, more relevant screening tool than what we've had. My team continues to monitor this technology closely. We expect employers will have questions, and we're here to help you determine if it belongs in your program.

In the meantime, if your company tests for marijuana, this is an excellent time to review your written policy. The ground is shifting quickly. Now more than ever, a clear, specific drug and alcohol policy is your foundation.

As always, we at Mid-South Drug Testing are here to help. Never hesitate to contact me directly with any questions about your testing program. My door is always open.

Kelly Dobbins President, Mid-South Drug Testing 901.320.9295

kellydobbins@midsouthdrugtesting.com