Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 27, 2025

The Use of Trace Eyeblink Classical Conditioning to Assess Hippocampal Dysfunction in a Rat Model of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders
Published on: August 5, 2017
The impact of alcohol consumption on commercial eye blink drowsiness detection technology
Jennifer M Cori1,2,3, Vanessa E Wilkinson1,2, Melinda Jackson1,2,3
1Institute for Breathing and Sleep, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia.
Introduction:
Driver drowsiness detection technology that assesses eye blinks is increasingly being used as a safety intervention in the transport industry. It is unclear how alcohol consumption to common legal driving limits impacts upon this technology. The aim of the study was to assess the impact of a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.05% and of 0.08% on drowsiness detection technology during simulated driving.
Methods:
Participants completed a 60-min driving simulation and sleepiness questionnaire under three conditions: 1-0.00% BAC, 2-0.05% BAC and 3-0.08% BAC. During the driving simulation task participants wore a commercial eye blink drowsiness detection technology (Optalert) with the drowsiness alarms silenced.
Results:
Twelve participants (3 female) completed all alcohol conditions. Relative to baseline, all eye blink parameters were affected at 0.08% BAC (all p < 0.05), whereas 0.05% BAC only affected the composite eye blink drowsiness measure (the Johns Drowsiness Scale).
Conclusions:
Alcohol consumption to 0.08% BAC impaired eye blink measures to a level that would be considered a moderate drowsiness risk. Therefore, employers should be aware that drowsiness alerts from these technologies may increase after alcohol consumption.
Related Concept Videos
CNS Depressants: Alcohol and Nicotine
Depressants
Alcohol is a common depressant that can induce a sense of relaxation and reduced inhibition at low doses. Contrary to its occasional...
Insufficient Sleep and Sleep Deprivation
Sleep deprivation is a more severe form of sleep loss...
Sleepwalking and Sleep Talking
Factors that increase the likelihood of sleepwalking include sleep deprivation and alcohol consumption. Contrary to common beliefs, it is safe...

