BAT Error Correction & Invalid Test Procedures Flashcards

Under 49 CFR Part 40, what is the correct term for a test that must be disregarded and is not used for any employment action?

Answer: Cancelled test

A 'cancelled test' is the DOT term for a test that must be disregarded due to a fatal flaw or uncorrected error, and it cannot be used for employment decisions.

Which of the following is considered a 'fatal flaw' that requires immediate cancellation of a DOT breath alcohol test?

Answer: The BAT uses a mouthpiece that was not from a sealed package

Using a mouthpiece that was not from a sealed, individually wrapped package is a fatal flaw requiring test cancellation under 49 CFR Part 40.

What action must a BAT take when an EBT produces an 'invalid' reading during a confirmation test?

Answer: Cancel the test and document the invalid result on the ATF

An invalid result on confirmation requires the BAT to cancel the test and document the result, then attempt to re-test on a different EBT if available.

If a BAT discovers an uncorrected error on the ATF after the employee has left the site, what must the BAT do?

Answer: Contact the employer immediately; the test may need to be cancelled depending on the type of error

The BAT must notify the employer so both parties can determine whether the error is a fatal flaw requiring cancellation or a correctable error.

Which type of error on an ATF can be corrected by the BAT providing a signed, written statement explaining the mistake?

Answer: A correctable flaw such as failing to print the employee's name

Correctable flaws—like an omitted name or missing printed date—can be fixed by a written statement, whereas fatal flaws require cancellation.

When an employee is unable to provide an adequate breath sample during a confirmation test, what is the BAT's first required step?

Answer: Allow the employee a second attempt and document the situation on the ATF

The BAT must give the employee a second attempt and document the difficulty before escalating to a potential medical evaluation referral.