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Minimum respiratory function for breath alcohol testing in South Australia.
A J Crockett1, D A Schembri, D J Smith
1Respiratory Unit, Flinders Medical Centre, Bedford Park, SA.
Journal - Forensic Science Society
|October 1, 1992
Summary
Many individuals struggle to complete breath alcohol tests due to lung function limitations. This study found no direct correlation between lung function parameters and breath alcohol test success rates, suggesting device and technique improvements are needed.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Forensic Toxicology
Background:
- Breath alcohol testing is crucial for legal and clinical assessments.
- Successful completion relies on adequate respiratory effort.
- Potential links between pulmonary function and test success require investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between standard lung function spirometry parameters and the ability to successfully complete a breath alcohol test.
- To identify if specific lung function metrics predict breath alcohol testing failure.
Main Methods:
- 153 subjects used the Lion Alcolmeter SD-2; 158 used the Drager Alcotest 7110.
- 69 subjects completed tests on both devices.
- Lung function spirometry parameters were recorded for all participants.
- Failure rates for breath alcohol tests were analyzed against spirometry data.
Main Results:
- 32% of subjects failed to produce a valid test on the Alcolmeter.
- Only 2 subjects failed the Alcotest.
- Significant overlap existed between lung function parameters of successful and failed test groups.
- No clear correlation was found between lung function and test success.
Conclusions:
- Current breath alcohol testing devices and techniques may not adequately account for respiratory limitations.
- Improvements to instruments, testing protocols, and legislation are recommended.
- Reducing test failures and result variability is essential for reliable breath alcohol analysis.