How Do Breathalysers Work?

A breathalyser works by exhaling through the mouthpiece into a test chamber filled with a solution of potassium dichromate, sulfuric acid, silver nitrate and water. The measurement is based on the chemical reaction. During this reaction, the reddish-orange dichromate ion changes colour to the green chromium ion when it reacts with the alcohol, and the degree of the colour change is directly related to the level of alcohol in the exhaled breath.

What Are Breathalysers Used For? 

The world’s first electronic breathalyser was invented by Dr Tom Parry Jones in 1974 which he manufactured and sold to police forces across the world to improve road safety. But breathalysers are not exclusively used by police officers – they are commonly used in the workplace to test employee’s alcohol levels, especially in jobs where there is significant risk involved and safety is paramount e.g. operating machinery. 

The Importance Of Alcohol Testing In The Workplace

All employers have a duty of care to ensure a drug and alcohol-free, safe working environment. Whilst the UK government and the HSE believe that there isn’t a need for widespread drug and alcohol testing in the workplace, there are several industries where it is deemed essential, in particular safety critical areas, such as the Armed Forces, construction, police, prison service, and public transport.

The misuse of drugs and alcohol can significantly influence a person’s ability to perform their standard day-to-day activities, leading to diminished productivity, as well as increasing the risk of accidents, putting themselves and others at risk.

Alcohol Testing Equipment

At Morsafe, many of our customers have a zero tolerance on alcohol, especially when their staff have safety critical jobs such as driving or operating machinery. This is why we stock a range of testing instruments which are easy-to-use, reliable and accurate. Take a look: 

SSD Alcometer – Digital Alcohol Breathalyser / Tester

Our new range of Digital Fuel Cell Alcometers are the best in class, providing rapid and accurate results every time. Some of its key features include:

• Flow sensor to indicate the donor is using correctly. 
• Back-lit displays for use at night. 
• Warning lights for positive results. 
• 3 mouthpieces, battery and a heavy duty case. 

Sure Sign Alcohol Testing Kit

The Suresign Alcohol Screening Test rapidly detects the presence of alcohol in the exhaled breath. If alcohol is present in the exhaled breath, it reacts with the chemically coated crystals and produces a colour change. 

• Supplied in a pack of 2. 
• The test provides relative Blood Alcohol concentration at 0.05%. 

For all of your workplace diagnostic needs, take a look at our wide range of diagnostic products, which range from drug & alcohol tests to blood pressure monitors and everything in between. 

Written by Kate, for MorSafe Supplies.