Introducing REACT

REACT – Risk Evaluation Alcohol Consumption Testing looks for ethyl glucuronide (EtG) with in a sample of head or body hair.

Direct measurement of ethanol (alcohol) in hair is not feasible due to its volatility and possible external contamination. Instead, we measure ethyl glucuronide (EtG) as direct biomarkers of alcohol consumption.

The test will show average consumption over a three month period, excluding the 10 days immediately prior to the sample being taken.

No, OdiliaClark instructs the laboratory to look only for EtG within a REACT test.

No, all tests are anonymised so even if employers wanted results to be reported OdiliaClark would be unable to report results.

It is standard practice for there to be an A and a B sample. This is usually to provide a sample for independent analysis if required. In the event of a REACT test because we are using unqualified collectors this minimises the risk of having a sample so low in weight that the sample cannot be tested. If the sample is underweight both samples will be combined to allow complete analysis.

They are reported to OdiliaClark by the laboratory and uploaded to the REACT portal. All results are deleted from the system after SIX months.

OdiliaClark uses hair for this test as the detection window hair provides is typically 3-6. Both urine and blood samples present logistical challenges in transport and may cause discomfort or anxiety during collection.

The headline results categories come from the Society of Hair Testing (SoHT). Through the experience of OdiliaClark deploying this testing into a number of organisations across a breadth of donors we have been able to further define these results to provide a balance of risk and an indicator to were further support may be required.

Fingernails are the least preferred, least accurate method for objectively analysing alcohol consumption. Also, the reporting figures for fingernails are much higher than with hair. For an anonymised, indicative level of reporting fingernail reporting will only cause confusion and possible distress to REACT participants.

Not necessarily, but it could be a good time to reflect. If you’re concerned, you might consider speaking with your GP, an occupational health advisor, or accessing support through a service like Drinkaware or Alcoholics Anonymous.

Yes. EtG levels will decrease over time as drinking patterns change. If you reduce or stop drinking, a repeat test in a few months will likely reflect those changes.

The short answer is no, a lifestyle test looks at alcohol (and sometimes drugs) over a longer timeframe, typically 3 to 6 months. Unlike breath or urine tests, which show recent use, lifestyle testing looks for biomarkers in hair or fingernails that build up slowly and reflect regular patterns of use.

The type or colour or location has no influence on the result.

No, these areas are prone to heavier sweating. This results in the alcohol in the sweat being recycled into the hair giving spurious results that will typically be much higher.

Bleach will kill the hair and subsequently any sample in the hair. This generally only relates to hair that is regularly and heavily bleached.

No, when samples are received by the laboratory they are washed and weighed in line with recognised practices ensuring there is no external contamination.