Workplace safety is not a place to cut corners because the consequences can be catastrophic – which is why all Alcolizer devices are certified to an Australian Standard.
While many might argue the difference between Certification and Compliance is subtle, Alcolizer Quality Manager Gabriella Tassone says, “Think of a product that has been certified as one that has been more thoroughly tested by an independent body. A product that has been certified as compliant to Australian Standards provides superior safety characteristics compared to one that just boasts it is compliant but does not have the certification to prove it. Certification is a step above compliance.”
All Alcolizer products are independently tested in a European laboratory ensuring the device has been vigorously and consistently tested to ensure precision in the Alcohol and Drug testing field, where accuracy is paramount.
Stating the differences between Certification and Compliance
An item that has been CERTIFIED compliant to Australian Standards features superior safety characteristics over a product that is only said to be COMPLIANT but lacks certification to validate the claim.
Standards are agreed upon specifications designed to create products that consistently perform in a safe and reliable manner. Even in industries where safety is the primary focus, often Standards compliance is voluntary.
Understanding why Compliance does not measure up when testing for Alcohol and other Drugs
In Australia, Compliance to a given Standard, whether that Standard is mandatory or voluntary, is not monitored or enforced nationwide. This means manufacturers of AOD testing devices can claim compliance based on in-house self-testing.
Another area where Compliance falls short is that there is no requirement of manufacturers to test their products on an ongoing basis. AOD devices may have variances as time passes so a device that complies when first manufactured may at a later date fail to comply with the standard. Unless testing is conducted periodically this fault will not be found.
Often claims of compliance may also not be relevant to the Standard relevant to the AOD sector.
Why Certification is superior
Independent Standards certification of compliance means the device has been tested and examined by an independent certification body such as SAI Global. SAI Global are an internationally recognised certifying authority. SAI Global only accept testing from third party internationally accredited ILAC certified laboratories.
All of Alcolizer’s products are certified by an independent third-party certification providing peace of mind that all their products conform to the requirements of a nominated Standard. Purchases of Alcolizer products can rest assured that they are regularly tested in line with the recommendations within the Standard.
Alcolizer’s devices have been subjected to an extra step in the manufacturing process. These products carry added value, with the product’s quality and fit-for-purpose assured in accordance with Australian Standards.
How to check a product is Certified
Check for the accredited auditor logo with the licence or identification number or discuss with your Alcolizer representative.
Last year a new certification was established for Breath Alcohol Testing Devices called the Australian Standards AS3547:2019 certification. This updated certification supersedes AS3547:1997 reflecting advancements in technology and materials.
This new certification means there is still a primary focus on accuracy, but it includes extra requirements for improved robustness and reliability. This provides users with the peace of mind that the product they are purchasing is extremely accurate and reliable. Certification expires, which ensures the devices continually comply if they have undergone upgrades or any modifications in the interim.
If you are about to invest in Breath Alcohol or Drug testing equipment and the company you are dealing with say they comply with the standard but are NOT certified, ask them why NOT? After all failure to give an accurate reading may result in a serious accident – or even a death. Certification offers peace of mind.