Toxicology – Forensic Alcohol
Gas Chromatograph with Flame Ionization Detector (GC/FID) 
Toxicology is the study of the effects of chemicals on biologic systems. Forensic Scientists that work in the Human Performance Forensic Toxicology (Blood/Urine Alcohol) section analyze blood to determine a blood alcohol concentration and the presence of other volatiles. Urine can also be analyzed qualitatively to determine if ethanol was contained in the sample. Ethanol concentration and the presence of other volatiles in bodily fluids and liquids is performed by using Headspace Dual Column Gas Chromatography with Flame Ionization Detection (GC/FID). Forensic Scientists that perform Human Performance Forensic Toxicology (Blood/Urine Alcohol) analysis are required to have a Laboratory Analyst’s Permit that requires re-certification on a yearly basis.
The Human Performance Forensic Toxicology (Blood/Urine Alcohol) section also analyzes liquids/liquors to determine if ethanol is present.
The Human Performance Forensic Toxicology (Blood/Urine Alcohol) analysts also testify in court to explain and support their finding and to explain the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of ethanol and ethanol effects on human performance.