Drug & Alcohol Use Testing
A polygraph addresses a different question from a urine or hair test, and the two are not substitutes. A chemical test tells you what is in someone’s body now, or in recent weeks. An examination can address a period a chemical test can no longer reach.
The most common instruction is from a family or a treatment context: has this person used a named substance since a specific date. Because the question is about a defined period and a defined substance, it is well suited to the single-issue format. Vague questions about whether someone is “clean” are not, and we will rework them with you before the appointment.
Where a chemical test is the better tool
If the question is about use in the last few days, take a chemical test — it is cheaper, faster and more direct. If the question is about a six-month period, or about a substance that clears quickly, an examination may be the only instrument that can address it. Sometimes the right answer is both, and we will say so.
Important practical points
We do not examine anyone who appears to be intoxicated or in withdrawal at the time of the appointment. This is not a judgement; the physiological recording is not valid in either state, and running the test anyway would take your money for a worthless result. If that happens we will rebook you, and we will explain why.
Certain prescribed medications can affect the recording. Tell us at booking what you take — it very rarely prevents an examination, but it does need to be known and documented in advance.
What this covers
- Single-issue examinations on a named substance over a defined period
- Honest advice where a chemical test is the better instrument
- Prescribed medication discussed and documented before the appointment
- No examination where the examinee is intoxicated or in withdrawal
- Recurring arrangements available for treatment and family contexts
Discuss this before you book
Tell us what you need answered and we will tell you honestly whether this is the right examination for it.
Other services
Relationship & Infidelity Testing
For couples trying to settle a question of fidelity honestly and privately.
Criminal Defense & Specific Issue
Single-issue examinations for people facing an allegation, usually instructed by counsel.
Attorney & Legal Instructions
Examinations instructed by counsel in criminal, family and civil matters.