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Impairment Detection Technology is an emerging space and the terminology can be sometimes confusing. Here, we’ll provide a list of common terms and clear definitions for the drug testing and impairment space.

Fitness for Duty

  • Fitness for Duty (FFD) can be defined as the multidimensional state of an individual that enables them to perform the essential functions of their job safely and effectively, without posing a threat to themselves or others. This state encompasses three key areas:

    1. Physical Fitness:

    This ensures the individual has the necessary physical strength, stamina, and dexterity to perform job tasks without undue fatigue or risk of injury.

    It may involve assessments of vision, hearing, strength, agility, and overall physical health.

    2. Mental Fitness:

    This encompasses cognitive abilities, emotional stability, and psychological well-being necessary for safe and sound judgment, decision-making, and task performance.

    It may involve assessments of cognitive function, mood, stress levels, and potential substance abuse issues.

    Drug and other substance abuse constitutes a key risk factor for mental fitness for duty. This is the area that Gaize focuses on with our ocular impairment test.

    3. Behavioral Fitness:

    This refers to the individual's ability to maintain appropriate conduct, comply with safety regulations, and work effectively with colleagues and clients.

    It may involve assessments of interpersonal skills, communication abilities, conflict resolution strategies, and adherence to ethical standards.

  • Impairment

    Impairment refers to a decrease in a person’s ability to perform tasks safely or effectively due to physical or mental limitations, regardless of the substance or cause.

    Intoxication

    Intoxication describes the physiological effects of consuming a substance, like alcohol or drugs, which may or may not result in impairment.

  • Being "under the influence" means having consumed a substance, such as alcohol or drugs, in a way that affects the body or mind. While it implies some level of intoxication, it does not necessarily mean the person is impaired or unable to perform tasks safely.

Drug and Impairment Testing

  • The process of analyzing biological samples (e.g., blood, urine, saliva) to detect the presence of specific drugs or their metabolites in the body. This can be used for various purposes, including:

    • Law enforcement: Identifying individuals suspected of driving under the influence (DUI) of drugs.

    • Workplace screening: Checking for drug use among employees as a condition of employment or for safety-sensitive positions.

    • Pain management: Monitoring medication use in patients receiving pain medication.

    • Sports testing: Ensuring athletes comply with anti-doping regulations.

  • A Drug Impairment Test evaluates a person’s physical and physiological responses to identify potential impairment caused by drug use. These tests often include assessments of eye movements, pupil reactions, balance, coordination, and other indicators, based on established protocols like those used by Drug Recognition Experts (DREs), as Gaize does.

  • Measures a worker's cognitive and psychomotor performance. Examples include: reaction time tests, balance tests, attention tests, memory tests, and decision-making tests.

  • Measures physiological changes in the body that are associated with drug impairment. Examples include: eye tracking tests, heart rate tests, pupil dilation tests, blood pressure tests, and skin conductance tests.

  • Non-Negative Drug Test Results

    A non-negative drug test result is a preliminary finding that indicates the presence of a substance in the sample, but it requires confirmatory testing to determine if it is truly positive or if it may be due to other factors, such as legal medications or errors.

    Positive Drug Test Results

    A positive drug test result means a substance was detected in the sample at or above the laboratory's established threshold, and the result has been confirmed by additional testing (e.g., gas chromatography-mass spectrometry).

  • The period of time for which someone can be positive (or non-negative) on a drug test. This varies by substance due to metabolic factors, and can vary by individual factors like metabolic rate, BMI, etc.

  • Overview: Breath testing is commonly used to detect the presence of alcohol by measuring the concentration of alcohol in the air exhaled from the lungs. Specialized devices like breathalyzers provide an estimate of blood alcohol concentration (BAC).

    Common Uses:

    • DUI enforcement

    • Workplace alcohol testing

    • Post-incident testing

    Advantages:

    • Non-invasive and quick

    • Immediate results

    • Portable equipment

    Limitations:

    • Only effective for detecting alcohol

    • Does not measure drug impairment or detect other substances

  • A drug testing method that analyzes oral fluid collected from the mouth, seeking to measure the presence of parent drugs and metabolites. This type of test is becoming a more prevalent option due to:

    • Convenience: Easier to collect and administer compared to blood or urine tests.

    • Detection window: Can sometimes detect recent drug use within a shorter timeframe than other methods (often 24-48 hours).

    • Less privacy concerns: Considered less intrusive than blood draws.

    Common Uses:

    • Workplace drug testing

    • Law enforcement roadside screening

    • Pre-employment testing

    Advantages:

    • Non-invasive and easy to collect

    • Detects very recent use (minutes to days)

    • Difficult to adulterate

    Limitations:

    • Limited detection window (typically 24–48 hours)

    • May not be suitable for chronic or long-term drug use detection

    • Does not measure impairment

  • Overview: Urine testing is the most common method for detecting drug use. It identifies drug metabolites excreted by the body, providing evidence of recent substance use.

    Common Uses:

    • Workplace drug testing

    • Pre-employment screening

    • Rehabilitation and probation monitoring

    Advantages:

    • Non-invasive and widely available

    • Cost-effective and fast

    • Detects a broad range of substances

    Limitations:

    • Extended detection window (varies by substance, but often 1–6 weeks)

    • Can be adulterated or tampered with

    • Does not measure current impairment or intoxication

  • Overview: Blood testing measures the concentration of drugs, alcohol, or their metabolites directly in the bloodstream, offering the most accurate assessment of substance levels at the time of the test. It’s important to note that substance levels do not indicate current impairment with the exception of alcohol.

    Common Uses:

    • DUI and impairment testing

    • Confirmatory testing in legal cases

    • Medical evaluations

    Advantages:

    • Highly accurate and precise

    • Provides a snapshot of active substance levels

    • Effective for both recent and ongoing use

    Limitations:

    • Extremely Invasive and requires medical personnel

    • More expensive and time-consuming

    • Shorter detection window for many substances

    • Does not detect impairment with the exception of alcohol

  • Overview: Hair testing analyzes hair samples for traces of drug metabolites that are deposited in the hair follicle after drug use. It provides a long-term record of substance use.

    Common Uses:

    • Pre-employment or workplace testing

    • Monitoring long-term drug use

    • Legal and forensic investigations

    Advantages:

    • Long detection window (up to 90 days or more)

    • Non-invasive collection process

    • Difficult to adulterate

    Limitations:

    • Does not detect recent use (within the last few days)

    • Higher cost compared to other methods

    • Limited availability for certain substances like alcohol

    • Does not detect impairment

  • A drug test designed to detect the presence of a drug or its metabolites within a relatively short timeframe, typically focusing on the past 24-48 hours. This is in contrast to other tests that may detect past use for longer periods.

  • The period of time during which a drug or its metabolites are present in the body at sufficient levels to potentially cause impairment. This window can vary significantly depending on several factors, including:

    • The specific drug: Different drugs have different metabolisms and elimination rates, leading to varying impairment windows.

    • Dosage and frequency of use: Higher doses and more frequent use can generally lead to a longer impairment window.

    • Individual factors: Factors like body fat composition, metabolism, and hydration can influence how long a drug remains detectable.

    It's crucial to remember that the presence of a drug in the body, even within the impairment window, doesn't necessarily guarantee impairment. Other factors and a comprehensive evaluation are crucial for determining actual impairment.

Physiological Impairment

  • Involuntary, rhythmic eye movements that can be a sign of various conditions, including impairment from drugs or alcohol. Gaize's technology is able to detect nystagmus through eye movement analysis.

  • Quick, involuntary eye movements used to shift gaze between different points of focus. Gaize's technology analyzes the characteristics of saccades and other motions to detect potential impairment.

  • The natural response of the pupil to changes in light intensity, expanding to let in more light, or contracting to limit light. Gaize's technology analyzes PLR alongside eye movements for a comprehensive assessment.

  • The ability of the eyes to smoothly track a moving object with minimal jerking or lagging movements. This function is controlled by various brain regions and can be affected by various factors, including:

    • Alcohol and drug intoxication: Impairment can disrupt smooth pursuit, leading to jerky eye movements as they try to follow a moving object.

    • Fatigue and sleepiness: Similar to intoxication, fatigue can also impair smooth pursuit, making it difficult to track moving objects smoothly.

    • Neurological conditions: Certain neurological conditions can affect smooth pursuit and eye movement control.

    Law enforcement officers, particularly DREs, may use smooth pursuit observation as part of their evaluation process to detect potential impairment. However, it is important to note that smooth pursuit evaluation alone is not sufficient for determining impairment and should be used in conjunction with other assessment methods.

  • A specific type of nystagmus where the involuntary eye movements occur horizontally, typically when the individual gazes to the extreme left or right. HGN is a common sign observed during SFSTs and DRE evaluations.

  • This refers to the observation of HGN when the individual's gaze is directed as far left or right as possible. The presence and characteristics of HGN at Max Dev are considered significant indicators of potential impairment in SFST protocols.

  • This further specifies the presence of HGN even before the individual's gaze reaches the 45-degree angle from their center of vision. This specific characteristic of HGN is considered a strong indicator of potential alcohol intoxication in SFSTs.

  • Similar to HGN, but the involuntary jerking movements occur vertically when the individual looks up or down to the extreme positions. While less common than HGN, vertical gaze nystagmus can also be a sign of impairment or other underlying conditions.

  • Refers to the inability of the eyes to converge their gaze inwards to focus on a near object. Normally, our eyes naturally move inwards (converge) to bring a close object into clear focus. Lack of convergence can be a sign of:

    • Alcohol and drug intoxication: Impairment can disrupt the neural pathways controlling eye coordination and focusing abilities.

    • Certain eye conditions: Some eye muscles or nerve issues can affect convergence, leading to difficulty focusing on near objects.

  • Involves a rapid dilation of the pupils after a brief exposure to bright light. This phenomenon can be observed during a standard pupillary light reflex (PLR) test, where a bright light is shone briefly into the eyes. While not solely indicative of impairment, pupillary rebound dilation may be considered alongside other observations in a comprehensive evaluation.

Law Enforcement

  • Standardized Field Sobriety Tests. A roadside sobriety test battery used by law enforcement in the United States to assess potential impairment from alcohol and drugs. These tests are distinct from the Drug Recognition Expert evaluation (which are much expanded), though there is some overlap.

  • ARIDE is a training program designed to help law enforcement officers detect and identify signs of impairment from drugs, alcohol, or a combination of substances. It bridges the gap between standard field sobriety testing and the more advanced training of Drug Recognition Experts (DREs), focusing on recognizing impairment from drugs other than alcohol.

  • A Drug Recognition Expert is a law enforcement officer with the highest level of training in identifying whether someone is impaired, the category of substances causing the impairment, and whether medical conditions might be involved. DREs use a standardized, systematic 12-step process to assess impairment based on physiological signs, including eye movements, pupil reactions, and other physical indicators. Gaize uses the DRE ocular tests in our product.

Drugs

  • Cannabinoids are a class of chemical compounds derived from the Cannabis sativa plant or produced synthetically that interact with the endocannabinoid receptors in the brain and body. They include a variety of compounds, such as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary psychoactive component responsible for the "high" associated with cannabis, and cannabidiol (CBD), which is non-psychoactive and often associated with therapeutic effects.

    Effects: Cannabinoids can produce a variety of effects, depending on the specific compound and the individual:

    • Relaxation

    • Euphoria

    • Altered perception of time and space

    • Impaired coordination and judgment

    • Increased appetite

    • Anxiety or paranoia (in some users)

    Risks: Potential risks associated with cannabinoid use include:

    • Impaired cognitive function and learning, particularly in adolescents

    • Respiratory issues when smoked or vaped

    • Potential for addiction, particularly with frequent THC use

    • Psychosis in individuals predisposed to mental health conditions

    Examples:

    • Naturally Occurring: Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), Delta-8 THC, Cannabidiol (CBD)

    • Synthetic Cannabinoids: Spice, K2

    • Cannabis Products: Marijuana, Hashish, Cannabis Oils

  • Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant that is widely consumed for recreational purposes. It is absorbed into the bloodstream and affects the brain, reducing inhibitions and slowing down neural activity.

    Effects: Alcohol can produce a range of effects depending on the dose and individual tolerance:

    • Relaxation

    • Euphoria

    • Impaired judgment and coordination

    • Slurred speech

    • Slowed reaction times

    • Mood swings

    Risks: Potential risks associated with alcohol use include:

    • Impaired motor skills and increased risk of accidents

    • Long-term liver damage (e.g., cirrhosis)

    • Cognitive impairment with heavy or prolonged use

    • Dependence or addiction (alcohol use disorder)

    • Increased risk of certain cancers and cardiovascular issues

    Examples:

    • Beer

    • Wine

    • Distilled Spirits

  • Depressants are substances that slow down activity in the central nervous system. They are often prescribed for anxiety, sleep disorders, or muscle relaxation but can be misused for their sedative effects.

    Effects: Depressant drugs can produce effects such as:

    • Relaxation and calmness

    • Reduced anxiety

    • Impaired coordination and motor skills

    • Slowed breathing and heart rate

    • Drowsiness

    Risks: Potential risks associated with depressants include:

    • Respiratory depression, especially when combined with alcohol

    • Dependence and withdrawal symptoms

    • Impaired memory and cognitive function

    • Increased risk of overdose with misuse

    Examples:

    • Benzodiazepines: Diazepam (Valium), Alprazolam (Xanax), Lorazepam (Ativan)

    • Barbiturates: Phenobarbital, Secobarbital

    • Other Depressants: Gamma-Hydroxybutyrate (GHB), Carisoprodol (Soma)

  • Item descriptionStimulants are substances that increase activity in the central nervous system, resulting in heightened alertness, energy, and focus. They are commonly prescribed for conditions like ADHD and narcolepsy but are also misused recreationally.

    Effects: Stimulants can produce effects such as:

    • Increased energy and alertness

    • Enhanced focus and concentration

    • Elevated heart rate and blood pressure

    • Decreased appetite

    • Euphoria

    Risks: Potential risks associated with stimulants include:

    • Increased risk of cardiovascular issues (e.g., heart attack, stroke)

    • Anxiety, agitation, or paranoia

    • Dependence and withdrawal symptoms

    • Sleep disturbances

    Examples:

    • Prescription Stimulants: Amphetamine (Adderall), Methylphenidate (Ritalin)

    • Illicit Stimulants: Cocaine, Methamphetamine (Meth), MDMA

    • Other Stimulants: Nicotine, Caffeine

  • Opioids are a class of drugs derived from the opium poppy or synthesized in laboratories. They are commonly prescribed for pain relief but are highly addictive and frequently misused.

    Effects: Opioids can produce effects such as:

    • Pain relief

    • Euphoria

    • Drowsiness

    • Slowed breathing

    • Constipation

    Risks: Potential risks associated with opioids include:

    • High potential for addiction and dependence

    • Respiratory depression and overdose

    • Withdrawal symptoms with prolonged use

    • Increased tolerance, requiring higher doses

    Examples:

    • Natural Opioids: Morphine, Codeine

    • Semi-Synthetic Opioids: Oxycodone (OxyContin), Hydrocodone (Vicodin)

    • Synthetic Opioids: Fentanyl, Methadone, Tramadol, Nitazines

    • Illicit Opioids: Heroin

  • Dissociative anesthetics are drugs that distort perception of sight and sound and create a sense of detachment from the environment or oneself. They are used medically for anesthesia and occasionally misused recreationally.

    Effects: Dissociative anesthetics can produce effects such as:

    • Detachment from reality

    • Altered sensory perceptions

    • Euphoria or calmness

    • Impaired coordination and motor function

    • Numbness

    Risks: Potential risks associated with dissociative anesthetics include:

    • Confusion and memory impairment

    • High risk of injury due to altered perception

    • Hallucinations or delusions

    • Long-term cognitive deficits with frequent use

    Examples:

    • Ketamine

    • Phencyclidine (PCP), PCP Analogues

    • Dextromethorphan (DXM, found in some cough syrups)

  • Psychedelics are substances that alter perception, mood, and thought processes, often producing visual or auditory hallucinations. They are sometimes used in therapeutic settings but are also used recreationally.

    Effects: Psychedelics can produce effects such as:

    • Altered sensory perceptions and hallucinations

    • Enhanced introspection or emotional awareness

    • Changes in time and space perception

    • Euphoria or spiritual experiences

    • Anxiety or paranoia (in some users)

    Risks: Potential risks associated with psychedelics include:

    • "Bad trips" causing intense fear or confusion

    • Flashbacks or persistent perceptual changes

    • Increased risk of mental health issues in predisposed individuals

    • Impaired judgment leading to risky behaviorsPsychedelics are substances that alter perception, mood, and thought processes, often producing visual or auditory hallucinations. They are sometimes used in therapeutic settings but are also used recreationally.

      Effects: Psychedelics can produce effects such as:

      • Altered sensory perceptions and hallucinations

      • Enhanced introspection or emotional awareness

      • Changes in time and space perception

      • Euphoria or spiritual experiences

      • Anxiety or paranoia (in some users)

      Risks: Potential risks associated with psychedelics include:

      • "Bad trips" causing intense fear or confusion

      • Persistent perceptual changes

      • Increased risk of mental health issues in predisposed individuals

      • Impaired judgment leading to risky behaviors

    Examples:

    • Common Psychedelics: Lysergic Acid Diethylamide (LSD), Psilocybin (magic mushrooms), Dimethyltryptamine (DMT)

    • Other Psychedelics: Mescaline (found in peyote), Ayahuasca

  • Inhalants are a broad category of substances that produce mind-altering effects when their chemical vapors are inhaled. These include household products like glue, paint thinner, or aerosol sprays, as well as medical gases such as nitrous oxide.

    Effects: Inhalants can produce effects such as:

    • Euphoria

    • Dizziness and lightheadedness

    • Loss of coordination

    • Slurred speech

    • Hallucinations or delusions

    Risks: Potential risks associated with inhalants include:

    • Sudden sniffing death syndrome (from cardiac arrest)

    • Damage to the brain, liver, and kidneys with prolonged use

    • Suffocation from lack of oxygen

    • Neurological impairments, including memory loss and muscle weakness

    • High potential for fatal accidents due to impaired judgment

    Examples:

    • Household Products: Glue, Paint Thinners, Gasoline, Aerosol Sprays

    • Medical Gases: Nitrous Oxide (laughing gas)

    • Volatile Nitrates: Amyl Nitrate, Butyl Nitrate

  • Overview: The parent drug refers to the original substance consumed before it is metabolized by the body. It is the active compound responsible for the drug's effects.

    Common Examples:

    • THC in cannabis

    • Cocaine before it is broken down into benzoylecgonine

    Significance in Testing:

    • Indicates somewhat recent use since the parent drug is typically present in the body for a shorter duration than its metabolites.

    • Commonly detected in blood and oral fluid testing.

  • Overview: A metabolite is a byproduct formed when the body breaks down a drug. Metabolites are often inactive, but they can remain detectable for longer periods after the effects of the parent drug have subsided.

    Common Examples:

    • Carboxy-THC (a metabolite of THC)

    • Benzoylecgonine (a metabolite of cocaine)

    Significance in Testing:

    • Indicates past drug use, as metabolites stay in the body longer than the parent drug.

    • Commonly detected in urine, hair, and sometimes blood testing.