By following this structured procedure, the breath testing process remains accurate, professional, and compliant
Preparation for Testing
Set up a private testing environment, ensuring you have:
- Required equipment & consumables
- Paperwork & documentation
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- Check device calibration before proceeding.
Conducting the Test
1️ Introduction
- Introduce yourself to the donor.
- Ask if they are familiar with the company’s Drug & Alcohol Policy.
- Obtain their consent for the test.
2️ Pre-Test Screening
- Ask if the donor has consumed any food or drinks in the last 20 minutes.
- Check if they have smoked or vaped in the last 5 minutes.
- Confirm identity using an ID card or supervisor verification (including birthdate as a second identifier).
3️ Consent & Device Preparation
- Read the consent statement and obtain a signed consent form.
- Ensure the donor understands (consider language barriers, literacy, or vision issues).
- Turn on the breathalyzer device and confirm the serial number of the device and the calibration date with the donor.
- Record the serial number and calibration date of the device.
4️ Conducting the Test
- Provide a new, hygienic mouthpiece to the donor.
- Instruct them to blow continuously until told to stop.
- If the device indicates “Blow Failure,” reset and ask the donor to try again.
- Show the test result on the screen to the donor.
Interpreting Results
If the result is 0.000%:
- Record the result as the First Sample on the Chain of Custody Form.
- The donor may return to work.
If the result is above 0.000%:
- Record the result and inform the donor.
- They must wait 20 minutes before a retest, under supervision.
- No food, drink, or smoking allowed during this period.
After 20 minutes – Retest:
- Use a fresh mouthpiece.
- Record the Second Sample result.
- If 0.000%, the donor may return to work.
- If still above 0.000%, report to NCR for further action as per company procedure.
Important Testing Guidelines
⚠ Do NOT store or use the breathalyzer near ethanol-based products (wipes, gels, sprays).
⚠ Do NOT clean the breathalyzer with disinfectant wipes.
⚠ The collector must always maintain control of the device – do not hand it to the donor.
⚠ Do NOT allow liquids near the mouthpiece.
⚠ Ensure the exhaust port is not blocked during the test.
⚠ Always instruct the donor to take a deep breath before testing.
Testing Consent Form
Obtaining donor consent is mandatory before conducting a breath alcohol test. The consent document should:
- Clearly state the purpose of the test.
- Include donor’s name, date, and signature.
- Confirm donor’s awareness of the company policy. ✔ Document the test results properly.
Always follow hygienic protocols when handling mouthpieces.