Passive versus Standard (Active) Breathalyser
Passive testing mode
Passive alcohol testing mode
Passive alcohol breathalysers receive a breath sample when a subject speaks to or blows onto the instrument from a short distance. Importantly, there must be no direct contact between the mouth of the subject and the instrument (for hygiene reasons). In “Passive mode” the instrument does not give a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) reading, only a confirmation that alcohol is or is not present (positive/negative only).
Standard (Active) test mode
Standard (Active) alcohol testing mode
A breathalyser operating in “Standard mode” (sometimes referred to as “Active mode”) require the subject to deliver a breath sample through an approved, hygienic mouthpiece. The result from a quality breathalyser in “Standard mode” is an accurate BAC reading resulting from the analysis of the subject’s “deep lung air.”
Standard breathalyser units are less prone to environmental interference, and operator error by the person conducting the test. If accuracy is a prime concern (you need to see a numerical BAC reading), buy a breathalyser that needs to be blown into through a mouthpiece.
FAQ’s
How accurate are Passive breathalysers?
Answer: Passive breathalysers only deliver what is called “qualitative” result. They provide a written qualification as to whether alcohol is present of not. They do not measure accuracy. For an accurate result, you need a “quantitative” breathalyser (operating in Standard mode using a mouthpiece). A breathalyser operating in “Standard mode” with a mouthpiece analyses the subject’s deep lung air sample, and quantifies the result as a numeric blood alcohol concentration (BAC) reading.
Are Passive breathalysers able to be used in windy conditions outdoors?
Answer: A Passive breathalyser analyses a sample of ambient air from around its sample inlet (spigot). If the operator has provided adequate instructions and conducts the test correctly (this requires training), a Passive breathalyser collects a sample of the subject’s breath, mixing with some ambient air, analyses this sample and determines if any alcohol is present or not. Any significant external air flow, from wind outdoors or fans/air conditioners indoors, can interfere with the sample to be analysed. If the operator is well trained, conducting a valid passive test is generally as simple as shielding the test from excesses wind, etc. by turning your back to the wind, ensuring the subject is close to and blowing or talking directly to the instrument inlet.
Alcolizer manufactures only the highest quality electro-chemical fuel cell breathalysers for personal, workplace or law enforcement use. If you have any further questions about particular models and their breath testing capabilities, call our trained experts on 1300 789 908 or drop us an email by clicking here.