Biotech
Tuesday, October 10th, 2023 3:35 pm EDT
Key Points
- Introduction of Marijuana Breathalyzer: Hound Labs, a California-based biotechnology company, has developed and released the first commercial “marijuana breathalyzer.” This device is designed for employers to detect recent cannabis use in workers and to discourage on-duty marijuana use.
- Challenges in Workplace Testing: New York was the first state to pass a law that prohibits employers from testing workers for cannabis without signs of impairment, complicating workplace testing. Current tests often detect marijuana use up to 30 days prior, making it challenging to determine whether someone is currently impaired by cannabis.
- Shorter Detection Window: Hound Labs claims that its breathalyzer detects marijuana use within a few hours, providing the shortest detection window among available tests. The device identifies active THC molecules in breath, isolating recent use. While it doesn’t measure current impairment, it aims to bring clarity to workplace testing and help employers reduce risks associated with cannabis impairment while maintaining employee recruitment and retention efforts. The cannabis breathalyzer is available for employers and is not intended for law enforcement, although the company is considering options for law enforcement tests in the future.
Hound Labs, a California-based biotechnology company, has introduced a “marijuana breathalyzer” designed for employers to detect recent cannabis use in workers and discourage on-duty marijuana use. This development comes as New York enacted a law banning employers from testing workers for cannabis without signs of impairment when legalizing recreational marijuana. However, this law left both workers and employers confused, as current tests can detect marijuana use up to 30 days prior, making it challenging to determine current impairment. Hound Labs claims its breathalyzer detects marijuana use within a few hours, offering the shortest detection window among available tests. The device identifies active THC molecules in breath, providing clarity in workplace testing while maintaining employee recruitment and retention efforts. It’s important to note that this product is intended for employers and not for law enforcement, though the company is considering options for law enforcement tests in the future.
For full original article, please click here: https://www.timesunion.com/capitol/article/biotech-company-unveils-marijuana-breathalyzer-18414791.php
