What breathalyzers are allowed in the traffic police?

Which breathalyzer does the traffic police use in Russia in 2019?

According to traffic regulations, driving a vehicle while intoxicated is strictly prohibited. When stopping a drunk driver, the traffic police inspector is required to impose a fine.

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But how is the degree of intoxication determined? What breathalyzers are used for this in 2019? The use of breathalyzers in Russia is more than relevant.

Every year, tens of thousands of accidents occur due to drunk drivers. And it is important to detect drunk driving in a timely manner to prevent possible accidents.

Traffic police inspectors have the right to check the sobriety of any driver whose condition inspires suspicion. What kind of breathalyzers are used by traffic police officers in Russia in 2019?

Basic moments

The first breathalyzer appeared in the thirties of the last century in the USA. Its appearance led to the introduction of Prohibition.

The device could detect the presence of alcohol in the blood, although it was not capable of measuring its amount. Since 1939, breathalyzers began to be used by American police.

In 1953, the breathalyzer was improved in Germany, and the device took the form in which it is still used today, that is, the form of a “tube.” Why is alcohol so dangerous when driving?

The alcohol content in the blood of 0.8-1.2 ppm narrows the view and does not allow timely notice of cars moving nearby, an unreasonable feeling of euphoria appears, and the ability to make calculations when estimating distance is lost.

A ppm level of 1.2-2.4 makes driving almost impossible. All negative factors are multiplied to the limit.

Driving mistakes happen all the time. In busy traffic, an accident becomes almost inevitable.

The traffic police, guided by clause 63 of the Administrative Regulations, can stop any vehicle if there are undeniable signs of traffic violations.

A traffic police officer can suspend a driver from driving and ask him to take a breathalyzer test if the driver has at least one of the clearly manifested symptoms of intoxication. This:

• strange behavior;
• instability of balance;
• severe change in skin color (spots, excessive pallor or redness);
• speech disorder;
• alcoholic breath.

What it is

Breathalyzers (alcometers) are electronic devices that determine the alcohol content in a person’s blood based on a study of exhaled air.

Breathalyzers can be professional or amateur. A breathalyzer differs from an indicator with lights in that it has a display.

This reflects the accuracy of the readings. Modern devices are able to show results accurate to hundredths.

The traffic police use professional breathalyzers. These models are designed to conduct from one hundred and fifty tests per day.

The maximum number of possible tests can reach three hundred checks. The measurement error of professional breathalyzers is only 0.01 ppm.

As a rule, a printer can be connected to such devices to print the result on paper.

How the device works

The operating principle of a breathalyzer is not complicated. When the driver exhales, the device takes a portion of air from deep pulmonary breathing, which comes into direct contact with the blood.

Naturally, the alcohol content in the intake of such air is easily determined and by its amount one can determine the concentration of alcohol in the body as a whole.

Even the most inexpensive breathalyzers are equipped with a sensor and microprocessor. They make it possible to detect the alcohol content in the blood through a simple analysis, even after briefly blowing the device.

The type of blowing may vary. A mouthpiece can be used, and if it is present, the result is more accurate .

There are free-flow breathalyzers; they are more convenient, but the accuracy of the readings suffers somewhat. Test results are given as a number (mg/l or ppm) or as an answer (yes/no).

For professional models, an important parameter is the measurement range. The instrument error is also significant. The breathalyzer must comply with the legal framework.

The legislative framework

When conducting inspections, traffic police officers are guided by Decree of the Government of the Russian Federation No. 475 of June 26, 2008.

This standard describes in detail all the nuances of the procedure, current standards, requirements for devices and technical testing of traffic police breathalyzers.

According to the Resolution, all breathalyzers used by the State Traffic Safety Inspectorate must be included in the State Register of devices approved for use.

Devices must have the appropriate approval from the Ministry of Health.

Operation must be coordinated and approved at the highest level for use as medical equipment.

The Register includes about ten devices, both foreign and Russian made.

At the same time, what kind of breathalyzer is used by the traffic police depends on the region and you can encounter any of the permitted devices.

It is necessary to clarify that the device used by road inspectors must have certain documentation.

This is a technical passport with an inspection mark, certification documents, a certificate of inclusion of the device in the lists of the Ministry of Health and Social Development.

The traffic police breathalyzer must have a seal and a function for outputting data to paper.

The instrument documentation must indicate the percentage of error. The examination must be carried out in the presence of two witnesses.

What breathalyzers are used by the traffic police?

In 2019, the traffic police breathalyzer cannot show more than 0.16 ppm for the driver to be considered sober. Previously, even readings of 0.01 ppm were not allowed.

But since some devices have measurement errors, and the use of some foods and medicines shows a small amount of alcohol, an amendment was made to the legislation.

The traffic police are armed with exclusively professional breathalyzers and they are quite expensive.

But at the same time, you can find a lot of cheap devices on the market, mostly made in Asia.

Many car owners purchase such devices, hoping for independent testing.

But it should be noted that amateur testers can have an error of up to fifty percent. What kind of breathalyzers are used by the traffic police?

Among the devices used, there are both very expensive models and quite affordable ones. But all breathalyzers used by the traffic police belong to the professional level.

Lion Alcolmeter 500

The Lion Alcolmeter 500 breathalyzer has a compact shape. It is very practical in use. A plus is the Russian-language menu. Equipped with an electrochemical touch detector.

The range of its readings varies from 0 to 2 mg/l, readings - from 0 to 0.95 mg/l. That is, this type of breathalyzer determines the accuracy of blood alcohol content up to 0.95 mg/l.

Lion Alcolmeter 500 has an important feature that prevents deception on the part of the subject being tested.

If the driver being examined tries to imitate an exhalation, but does not do it, the device will automatically stop taking air masses.

Traffic police officers use this device for testing, both active and passive.

Alcotest 6510

The manufacturer of the Alcotest 6510 breathalyzer is the German company Drager. The device has established itself as a high-quality and fast-acting device.

The breathalyzer instantly reacts to exhaled air and immediately produces an error-free result. The device readings are always accurate.

Among other things, it is compact and very easy to use. Alcotest 6510 has virtually no failures.

This is one of the most durable devices of this type. The electrochemical sensor of the device can withstand up to seventy thousand measurements.

Readings are displayed with a range of 0-2.2 mg/l. Acceptable measurement is from 0 to 0.95 mg/l.

But according to experts, the device has a significantly smaller error than indicated in the documents for it.

Lion Alcolmeter SD-400

The Lion Alcolmeter SD-400 series from the English manufacturer Lion Laboratories Ltd. includes devices that are the latest achievements of gas analytical and microcomputer technologies.

How to find out your traffic police fines by last name, read here.

The basic model SD-400 combines the functions of a precision measuring device and a screening tester.

Features of this device include:

• electrochemical sensor with high selectivity;
• increased specificity for alcohol;
• insensitivity to other exhaled contaminants;
• high-precision measurement;
• sensitivity even to small doses of alcohol;
• portability;
• output the result to the LCD display.

This type of breathalyzer is considered so accurate that its readings can be used as evidence in court.

Among the features, it should be noted that the device has an internal memory for five hundred measurements and the database can be transferred to a PC.

The professional Russian breathalyzer “Jupiter” is designed for express measurements of alcohol content in the body.

It can be used by the traffic police, since it is included in the proper Register. The device can be produced in three variations - without a printer, with an external or built-in printer.

Of the features of “Jupiter” it should be noted:

The PRO-100 breathalyzer is made by Chinese manufacturers. The device has several modifications, and all of them are included in the list of acceptable devices.

Despite the fact that there is a disdainful attitude towards Chinese technology, this device has excellent technical potential and excellent functionality.

Video: Don't interfere with preventing safety

Due to this, the device is one of the most popular among Russian patrol services. The error of the device is approximately the same as that of the above-described models.

But the measurement accuracy is slightly higher - 0.048 mg/l. The device has a thermal printer for instant printing and a GPS receiver.

"Alkotest-203"

The Alkotest-203 device is considered one of the cheapest devices. This is a professional device made in Belarus. The device is equipped with a semiconductor sensor.

This breathalyzer is quite reliable and works without failures, but its error is approximately fifteen percent.

Due to limited functionality, it is used mainly for pre-trip examination of drivers in organizations.

AlcoHunter Professional X

The AlcoHunter Professional X device is manufactured by the domestic company i4Technology. The advantage of the device is that it is adapted for Russian conditions.

According to the manufacturer, even with active use, the average service life is at least five years.

Among the main advantages, the following nuances should be noted:

Types of breathalyzers at the traffic police

To determine the degree of intoxication of a driver on the road, the traffic police use breathalyzers. These devices are classified as professional devices. They are allowed to work only after thorough checks and certification. But every driver can purchase a personal breathalyzer for personal use.

Requirements for the traffic police breathalyzer

The road patrol officer performs a medical examination using a certified device. The Ministry of Health approves the breathalyzer after all the necessary checks, then the device is entered into the State Register of Devices and only after that it is allowed for use.

The State Traffic Inspectorate is obliged to carry out the procedure in a certain way, based on the resolution of the Government of the Russian Federation numbered 475. The document clearly states the instructions according to which the ppm level is measured. It also takes into account all the characteristics that a breathalyzer must meet.

What breathalyzers are used by the traffic police?

The traffic police inspector always has a device that is approved by law, has passed all tests and is approved for use in work. A certified breathalyzer has professional status. With its help, you can monitor the driver for the presence of alcohol in the blood with the most accurate readings. The inspector will rely on the readings of the device, on which the driver’s future fate depends.

Breathalyzers come in Russian and foreign versions. Any variety, regardless of which manufacturer produces the device, must receive a state certificate; this is the main requirement for the device. The rest of the article will present a list of breathalyzers that were most common in 2018.

Lion Alcolmeter 500

The main advantages of the device are high accuracy and ease of wearing. The menu is entirely in Russian, which makes its use both for the traffic police officer and for the driver personally as convenient as possible. The test result is shown on the display. The device is equipped with an electrochemical sensor. The ability to detect alcohol levels is limited to 0.95 mg/l.

Another important characteristic of a breathalyzer is its ability to prevent the penetration of atmospheric air if the driver restricts exhalation and tries to interfere with the analysis. In such a situation, the display will show no result and make it impossible to make a mistake.

Alcotest 6510

A professional device, which in its characteristics competes with the best models, and according to some manufacturers, has been a leader in the market for such products for the last 10 years. Thanks to its light weight and size, it is very convenient to use.

It is capable of measuring readings in the range from 0 to 2.5 mg/l. Testing yourself on it will not be difficult and will not take much time, since the speed of action is also one of the main advantages. The breathalyzer operates at temperatures from –5 to +50 degrees.

Alcotest 6810

This device is similar to the 6510, but with several improvements and differences. Both breathalyzers are made in Germany, but have a Russian-language menu that is easy to understand. Just like the model described above, this one quickly responds to exhalation and displays the results.

The instructions for use do not limit the user in choosing a mode, and the ability to show the correct result exceeds 70 thousand times. The range of information ranges from 0.2 to 2 mg/l, and the range of determinations from zero to 0.95 mg/l.

Lion Alcolmeter SD-400

The device, manufactured in Great Britain, is very popular due to its ability to show the most accurate results in the shortest period of time. When developing this model, the most advanced technologies were used, including the latest research achievements in the gas analytical field.

The device is very sensitive and analyzes only the alcohol content reading, without taking into account other substances contained in the atmospheric environment. The reading range is limited to numbers from zero to 2 mg/l. The standard values ​​are taken into account during the production process, so the tester is able to work with high accuracy. The error in both directions is no more than 0.05 mg/l.

The device is a representative of the line of Russian manufacturers of high-precision measuring equipment. This brand of breathalyzer has been used by the traffic police since 2007. The Jupiter model has 3 modifications, differing in the presence of an external printer or its absence. The measurement range varies from 0 to 1.2 mg/l, and the reading range from 0 to 2.5 mg/l.

It is possible to measure indicators at temperatures from – 10 to + 40 degrees. The device preparation and operation time takes no more than 10 seconds. The list of shortcomings of the domestic device is not long; the permissible error fluctuates around 10% in both directions.

The PRO-100 model is a representative of Chinese manufacturers and is certified by the regulatory authorities of the Russian Federation, which means it is allowed for rental by services that supervise the movement of vehicles. The breathalyzer of this model has several varieties, with and without built-in GPS. Calibrating indicators will not take much time and will not require much effort.

The time to set up the device is up to 15 seconds, after which the analysis is carried out and the data is displayed on the touch screen, which can be printed on site thanks to the built-in printer. The device measures from zero to 1.3 mg/l, and the reading range is from 0 to 2 mg/l.

PRO-100 Combi

This device is similar in characteristics to the PRO-100, which in principle is not surprising, since they are from the same manufacturer, but this model has a built-in printer. Another distinctive feature is the Russian keyboard, as well as its low weight. The device operates with high precision and versatility. It is possible to enter readings and personal data into the device’s memory.

The range of measurement values ​​is limited to figures from 0 to 1.3 mg/l, and readings from 0 to 2 mg/l. The standard error gap does not exceed 10% up or down. The price of the device, relative to its functionality, is quite low, which can also be attributed to the advantages of the analyzer.

Alkotest-203

The device is manufactured in Belarus and is approved for use in the Russian Federation and some other countries. It has only one button, protecting the sensor from cases in which the driver tries to simulate exhalation. Improved with digital indicator. The test is carried out by inhaling into a replaceable mouthpiece, after which the display shows the readings.

Measurement range from 0 to 1.3 mg/l, readings from 0 to 3 mg/l. The period of full operation is limited by the manufacturer to 1 year. Alkotest-203 is relatively inexpensive, but is superior in functionality to many more expensive models.

AlcoHunter Professional X

The device is one of the most highly accurate. Equipped with an LCD screen, it is capable of detecting even very low degrees of intoxication. It has been allowed to check drivers in the Russian Federation since 2012. The technical characteristics of the model allow you to determine blood alcohol levels in the range from 0 to 2.5 mg/l.

The principle of the test is as follows: the driver exhales into a special hole, after which the result is displayed on the display screen in a few seconds. The device has a modern appearance, small size and weight, and a full range of necessary functions for accurately determining the degree of intoxication.

DriveSafe II

A professional breathalyzer made in Canada has a highly sensitive electrochemical sensor, which allows you to determine the alcohol content in the driver’s blood in a matter of seconds. The display is protected by a special coating, which makes mechanical damage impossible.

Measurement range from 0 to 0.95 mg/l, readings from 0 to 1 mg/l. Almost every review about the operation of this device is positive. The normal operating air temperature ranges from – 5 to + 50 degrees Celsius.

Cobra Light

This model does not have a built-in printer. This reduces the weight of the device. The model is equipped with a touch electrochemical display, which allows you to determine the most accurate blood alcohol level. The sensor is protected from exhalation simulation and does not take into account data received from the atmosphere. Measurement range: 0.00-2.00 mg/l, data processing time does not exceed 5 seconds. The device is equipped with a USB and Bluetooth device.

Other devices

The full list of models is not limited to the varieties already described. Among the most popular are also:

• Meta-01. It is also called Breathalyzer 01. Despite its large dimensions, it is capable of accurately analyzing data and producing results without significant error.
• Dingo-025. It is equipped with an alarm, is small in size and is able to show accurate results in just a few seconds.
• TIGON M-3003. A professional breathalyzer with an impressive amount of built-in memory and capable of performing operations every 20 seconds.
• SITIITEK Pro 2. Highly functional device at low cost. Compactness and ease of use are the main advantages of the device.

What should a traffic police inspector's breathalyzer look like?

The procedure for testing for intoxication is complex and multi-stage. And its consequences can be very unpleasant. Including if you are completely sober. That is why all stages of the process are described in detail.

A key role is played by a breathalyzer - a device based on the readings of which a driver is recognized as sober or drunk.

Paragraph 5 of the Decree of the Government of the Russian Federation dated June 26, 2008 No. 475 states: “Examination for alcohol intoxication is carried out using technical measuring instruments that ensure the recording of research results on paper, approved for use by the Federal Service for Surveillance in Healthcare, verified in the established order by the Federal Agency for Technical Regulation and Metrology, the type of which is included in the state register of approved types of measuring instruments.”

This register changes periodically and is not presented on the official websites of departments. It is also not included in the Order of the Ministry of Health dated December 18, 2015 N 933n “On the procedure for conducting a medical examination for intoxication (alcohol, drugs or other toxic).” However, Resolution 475 makes an important limitation: a device approved for use must have a printer for printing measurement results. All “household” appliances and inexpensive gadgets from spare parts stores are devoid of them. So if you are offered to blow into a breathalyzer with a printer, most likely everything is official.

Let us add that even for a “correct” breathalyzer, the inspector must have the appropriate documents. Information about passing mandatory periodic verification is entered into the device passport or issued on a separate paper. If you are not provided with it, you have the right to refuse the “purge” on the road and demand to go immediately to a medical facility. You can rightfully refuse to blow into a questionable device. For example, one that does not have a printer (this obviously cannot be official), a disposable mouthpiece is missing, or was not opened before your eyes (this is unhygienic and makes you think of fraud carried out in advance). In this case, if traffic inspectors continue to insist on an inspection, it can only take place in a medical institution.

If you want to try your luck, blow into the gadget that is offered to you. Only with a high degree of probability this was not done without intent. So don’t be surprised if you suddenly find yourself “drunk.” This, by the way, doesn’t mean anything yet. If you disagree, also ask to see a doctor.

In other words, the result of a roadside inspection is not conclusive. If at least one of the parties does not agree with him, the final verdict is made by the doctor. But there is no point in encouraging the initiative of police officers who use dubious devices.

Traffic police breathalyzers: what models do traffic police officers use when checking drivers.

Every year, up to 50 thousand people die in road accidents in Russia. Most accidents are caused by drunk drivers. A drunk person driving is a criminal, because while intoxicated, the driver's coordination is impaired, perception is reduced, and reaction is slowed down.

The initial check of drivers for alcohol intoxication is the responsibility of traffic police officers. Traffic police officers, using breathalyzers, identify violators in order to remove them from driving, and, most importantly, to prevent a traffic accident in which people may suffer.

Representatives of the traffic police service conduct an examination on the basis of Government Decree 475 of August 26, 2008. It describes in detail the details of the driver examination procedure, including the requirements for breathalyzers for traffic police officers.

In this article we will tell you which breathalyzers are used by traffic police officers. First of all, it is worth saying that all devices for police officers to measure the level of alcohol in the exhaled air of drivers must be equipped with printers for printing out the analysis results. The device must be equipped with a passport with a verification mark, a document confirming certification and a certificate approved by the Ministry of Health and Social Development of Russia.

Traffic police officers should only have professional breathalyzers. Today, among the manufacturers of sobriety monitoring devices, it is worth highlighting the German company Drager, which is a world leader in the development and production of safety technologies. Of the modern models used to check drivers by traffic police officers, we note the Drager Alcotest 6810 with a printer and the Drager Alcotest 7510 with a printer. Both devices are professional measuring instruments and can be used in the field of traffic police inspections in accordance with Russian legislation.

Models Alcotest 6810 and Alcotest 7510 are equipped with a modern, precise electrochemical sensor, which allows obtaining the most accurate test results. The main feature of these models is the presence of a printer included in the kit for printing survey results.

Dräger Alcotest 6810 and Alcotest 7510 can be operated with or without a mouthpiece and have a full-text graphic display for ease of use.

The devices are equipped with an “anti-deception” function, thanks to which it is possible to avoid measurement errors in the form of insufficient exhalation or exhalation past the installed mouthpiece, as well as a memory for several thousand mouthpieces. In addition, Alcotest 7510 is equipped with a GPS sensor that allows you to record data about the location of the examination procedure.

So, to carry out the procedure for testing a driver for alcohol, traffic police officers must use only a professional breathalyzer that meets the requirements of Government Decree 475 of August 26, 2008. The device must be certified, have a passport with a verification mark, and also be connected to a printer that prints out the test results. Otherwise, the driver’s examination may be illegal, and the data obtained will not be considered in court as evidence of intoxication.

Now you know what breathalyzers the traffic police use and how to avoid becoming a victim of deception by unscrupulous police officers. But most importantly, you need to know that under no circumstances should you drive while intoxicated. Always weigh the possible consequences, because sometimes a rash step can cost someone their life.

Checking with a traffic police breathalyzer: standards, verification procedure, errors

There is no driver who has never been stopped for a sobriety test. Often, traffic police officers only perform their direct duties, but there are also unscrupulous inspectors. Since both use traffic police breathalyzers, they are required to follow certain test requirements. Knowing these rules is useful for everyone, especially motorists who, as a matter of principle, do not drink alcohol before getting behind the wheel. This is the only way they will protect themselves from fines and deprivation of rights.

New norms

The actions of State Traffic Inspectorate employees are regulated by the Administrative Regulations of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Russian Federation and the Rules for the Examination of a Vehicle Driver for Alcohol Intoxication. In 2013, some provisions of the law were changed. The main change concerned the permissible norm. If previously, according to Russian legislation, the amount of alcohol in the blood and exhaled air had to be zero, now this figure has changed. Allowed 0.16 mg of alcohol per liter of exhaled air or 0.3 g/l in the blood. You can read about this in the new order of the Ministry of Health.

The change was caused by the fact that after eating certain foods the device can detect the presence of alcohol. Here is a sample list of them:

• chocolate candies;
• lactic acid products (yogurt, kefir and others);
• kvass;
• some medications;
• some fruits (oranges, bananas) and fruit juices;
• mouth freshener;
• sandwiches with black bread and sausage.

Since this alcohol quickly dissipates, and the consequences for the accused driver are very unfavorable, the Ministry of Health was forced to revise the examination algorithm and slightly increase the previously adopted standards.

This is discussed in more detail in the article “Permissible alcohol limits while driving.”

But motorists who ignore the requirements of the law cannot avoid trouble.

Read about what punishment is provided for those who have broken the law for the first time, and what repeat offenders should be prepared for, in the material “Drunk driver driving in 2019.”

Another innovation: analysis of the driver’s urine and blood, regardless of the breathalyzer results. The purpose of the study is to identify substances that cause drug intoxication. If the driver does not pass this test within half an hour, blood will be taken from a vein.

Types of breathalyzers and their characteristics

Not all drivers know what kind of breathalyzers the traffic police uses, so many are afraid of getting caught by a dishonest inspector with a “fake” device and preset results. It must be admitted that similar cases occurred on country roads along which vacationers return from the beach or fishing.

To act in defense of their interests, drivers need to have an idea of ​​what breathalyzers are used by the traffic police. Typically, inspectors use one of a dozen devices recommended for use based on evidence-based inspection results.

In most cases, a certified traffic police breathalyzer is a model with an electrochemical sensor. Among Russian patrol officers, the following types are most common:

As a rule, breathalyzers used by the traffic police have a limit for measuring alcohol content - up to 0.95 mg/l, although for the Jupiter model this figure is higher - up to 1.2 mg/l.

Almost every professional device operating on the basis of an electrochemical reaction has high accuracy and speed in determining the result. Such a device is characterized by a small percentage of failures.

And yet, just knowing which breathalyzer the traffic police uses is not enough.

According to Decree of the Government of the Russian Federation dated June 26, 2008 No. 475, a detained driver has the right to demand from the inspector the original instrument verification report and verify the presence of a seal.

In addition, you should check whether the numbers on the seal match those indicated in the act.

Conditions for correct measurements

As noted in the above-mentioned document, one of the main conditions for conducting a legal inspection is the existence of grounds for the examination.

The next requirement is the presence of two witnesses. The examination must be carried out on site or at the nearest traffic police post. During the procedure, the following conditions must be met:

1. The traffic police professional breathalyzer must be turned off.
2. The inspector must open the package containing the disposable mouthpiece.
3. The first air intake occurs idle, after which the device should respond: “No alcohol detected.”

After the test, the test results are shown to the driver and witnesses and printed in 3 copies (for the driver, traffic police officer and for the archive). After 20 minutes, the employee must repeat the procedure, performing the steps described above again. The second test is considered the main one. If this condition is not met, the driver has the right to protest the inspection in court.

General information about what actions the inspector should take is contained in the article “Procedure for testing a driver for alcohol by a traffic police officer in 2019.”

Breathalyzer operating mode

Along with other functions, the traffic police breathalyzer has useful operational capabilities. For example, the presence of two modes of air sampling:

• active (the person being tested blows into the mouthpiece of the device);
• passive (the inspector independently takes a breath sample by pressing a button).

The electrochemical sensor consumes a minimal amount of current, so one set of batteries is enough for several hundred tests.

How to breathe correctly into a breathalyzer

As soon as the “Ready” signal appears on the screen of the traffic police breathalyzer, and the service employee inserts a new mouthpiece into the device, the driver must give a breath sample. To do this, you need to blow into the tube for about 4-6 seconds. At this time, the device emits a sound signal, accompanied by the inscription on the screen: “Blow.” When the device detects the supply of a sufficient volume of air (about 1.2 liters), the message “Wait” will appear. After analyzing the received sample, the result of the study will be displayed on the screen.

To avoid sample falsification, breathalyzers are equipped with a pressure sensor that detects an attempt to suck in air or interruption of exhalation. In this case, the corresponding information will appear on the screen.

Requirements for breathalyzers

Since a breathalyzer is a measuring device, it must meet a number of requirements. The main thing is the evidence of the verification results, based on the reliability of the data.

The breathalyzer readings can serve as evidence in court proceedings if a package of permits is issued for it:

• certificate of conformity;
• registration certificate of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation;
• certificate of approval of the type of measuring instrument;
• a valid certificate of verification.

To prevent a sober driver from being accused of having alcohol in his breath, you should know what the permissible error is for the traffic police breathalyzer in 2019. As a rule, this indicator depends on the model of the device and on average is no more than 0.02–0.05 mg/l (up to 0.2–0.48 mg/l), 10% (0.2–1.2 mg /l).

There are a number of substances to which the breathalyzer may react with deviation: kerosene, gasoline, toluene, etc. A list of them is contained in the operating manual.

Depending on the model, each breathalyzer must from time to time go through the process of setting up the sensor - calibration. This procedure is carried out in specialized service centers.

Algorithm of operation of the device

The operating stages of electrochemical breathalyzers are as follows:

• after switching on, the device heats up within 5–60 seconds;
• the subject exhales a certain volume of air (or non-contact screening is carried out);
• the sample is sent to the chamber of the device with a built-in sensor (an ethanol-sensitive catalyst is applied to one of the electrodes);
• within 10–30 seconds, the device displays the result of the catalyst’s reaction to alcohol molecules.

The traffic police officer prints out the results of the examination on a mini-printer built into the breathalyzer. After 10–60 seconds, the device is ready for use again.

Some of them are described in the material “Deception of the traffic police when checking for alcohol.”

How to fool the traffic police breathalyzer

Drunk drivers do not think about the danger they pose to other road users and only hope to avoid arrest. And if this happens, they use various tricks to deceive the device.

Many factors influence the operation of the device. If alcohol has been drunk recently, the alcohol molecules lingering in the oral cavity will increase the measurement readings many times over. If some time has passed, the device measures the alcohol vapor coming from the lungs.

Electrochemical models cannot be fooled. Neither the patrolman nor the detainee is able to influence the outcome.

Is it possible to buy a breathalyzer?

Nowadays, almost every driver thinks about where to buy a breathalyzer, like the one from the traffic police, because this small device can give you confidence that you are right. To purchase a reliable device, you should determine the selection criteria: for what purpose it is being purchased and how intensively it will be used.

If you need a device for corporate use, you can pay attention to professional breathalyzers. They cope with several dozen tests daily, so they can be used to conduct examinations of employees of a large organization. Most professional breathalyzers are included in the State Register of Measuring Instruments of the Russian Federation, so their readings have legal force.

“For yourself” you can buy a semi-professional or a good personal breathalyzer. In this case, it is worth considering its sensitivity and reliability.

If you don’t yet have such a measuring device at hand, you can check whether you are already allowed to drive after drinking alcohol using the alcohol calculation service.

Testing breathalyzers: Video

A car enthusiast with over 20 years of driving experience. Higher technical education. Experienced copywriter, specializing in banking and technical topics.