Role of the Alcohol Test Committee in Evaluating Evidentiary Breath Test Instruments and Screening Devices: The Process in Approving Equipment and Monitoring Equipment Modifications

• NCJ Number: 227226
• Journal: Canadian Society of Forensic Science Journal Volume: 42 Issue: 1 Dated: March 2009 Pages: 63-67
• Author(s): R.A. Pon
• Date Published: March 2009
• Length: 5 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Program/Project Description
• Language: French; English
• Country: Canada

Annotation

This paper summarizes the procedures used by Canada's Alcohol Test Committee (ATC) in evaluating breath-test equipment and the steps taken by the ATC to ensure that any modification to the originally approved equipment will not have an adverse effect on the performance of the evidentiary instrument or screening device.

Abstract

The ATC is a special committee of the Canadian Society of Forensic Science. The ATC is composed of forensic scientists with backgrounds in alcohol breath testing. It is represented regionally across Canada. When manufacturers of breath testing equipment wish to market their products for use by police agencies in Canada, they must first ensure that their equipment can meet the published standards outlined in the ATC's Recommended Standards and Procedures of the Canadian Society of Forensic Science Alcohol Test Committee. The formal process involves the manufacturer submitting a request to the Department of Justice (DOJ), requesting to have their equipment evaluated by the ATC. The DOJ contacts the chairperson of the ATC, who consults with ATC members in deciding whether or not to proceed with the evaluation. The evaluation itself follows strict procedures specified in published standards. The rigorous testing evaluates accuracy, precision, reliability, and specificity. Human subject testing is included in the evaluation protocol. Each evaluator prepares an independent report, and all reports are reviewed by ATC members. If the equipment meets the standards, the ATC decides whether it will recommend the equipment for use by police in Canada. If manufacturers decide to upgrade or modify their equipment, they must notify the DOJ and advise them of any proposed changes before making the changes. The DOJ informs the ATC of the proposed changes. The ATC then determines whether the proposed changes will jeopardize the equipment's approved status. 2 references