How Does an Alcohol Breath Test Work in Australia?

Breathalysers are indispensable tools for detecting blood alcohol content (BAC) in various settings, including law enforcement and personal use. At Breathalyser Sales & Service, we understand the importance of these devices in promoting road safety and responsible behaviour. Here, we provide an overview of how breathalysers work, focusing on their mechanisms, the science behind their accuracy and factors influencing their reliability.

How Breathalysers Work

Breathalysers detect alcohol in a person's breath, which correlates to the amount of alcohol in their bloodstream. There are two main types of breathalysers: semiconductor-based and infrared-based.

Semiconductor breathalysers use a sensor that reacts with alcohol molecules in the breath, producing a chemical reaction that generates an electrical current. The strength of this current indicates the BAC level. On the other hand, infrared breathalysers measure the amount of infrared light absorbed by alcohol molecules in the breath. This method is often used in professional and law enforcement settings due to its higher accuracy.

During blood alcohol level detection, the individual blows into the breathalyser. The device then captures a breath sample, which is analysed to determine the BAC. The results are typically displayed as a percentage, indicating the amount of alcohol present in the bloodstream. This simple yet effective process makes breathalysers a valuable tool in assessing sobriety levels.

Scientific Principles

The underlying science of alcohol breath tests involves either chemical reactions or infrared spectroscopy. In semiconductor breathalysers, the interaction between alcohol and the sensor's chemical compound generates an electrical charge, providing a BAC reading. In contrast, infrared breathalysers utilise the principle that alcohol absorbs specific wavelengths of infrared light. The device measures the amount of light absorbed to determine the alcohol concentration.

There is a direct correlation between the alcohol concentration in the breath and the blood. This correlation is quantified using a partition ratio, typically set at 2100:1. This means that the amount of alcohol in 2100 millilitres of breath is equivalent to that in one millilitre of blood. Understanding this ratio is crucial for ensuring accurate BAC readings and is a key component of any breathalyser operation guide.

Accuracy and Factors Affecting Results

Accuracy is obviously vitally important in an alcohol breath test but various factors can influence the reliability of results. One major factor is the condition of the breathalyser itself. Regular maintenance and calibration are essential to ensure accurate readings, as outlined in any breathalyser operation guide. Devices that are not regularly calibrated may provide inconsistent or incorrect BAC levels.

External factors can also impact breathalyser accuracy. User errors, such as insufficient blowing time or improper handling, can lead to inaccurate results. Additionally, certain foods, medications, and medical conditions can affect the BAC reading. For instance, residual alcohol in the mouth or some medical conditions that produce alcohol-like compounds can lead to false positives.

Keeping on Top of Breath Test Principles

Understanding alcohol breath test mechanics is essential for appreciating their role in promoting public safety. By detecting BAC levels accurately, breathalysers contribute to reducing alcohol-related incidents and enhancing road safety.

Regular maintenance and correct usage of these devices are crucial for obtaining reliable readings. Staying informed about alcohol testing technology and the factors influencing breathalyser accuracy can significantly improve their effectiveness in various settings. We are committed to providing high-quality, reliable testing equipment to ensure safety and compliance in all alcohol testing applications.

Learn more about blood alcohol level detection and breath test principles with the help of Breathalyser Sales & Service, Australia’s leader in drug and alcohol testing equipment. Contact us online or call us on 1300 999 200 today!