Breath Alcohol Technician Equipment Calibration & Maintenance Flashcards

What is the purpose of conducting an air blank reading on an EBT before each subject test?

Answer: To confirm the device reads 0.000 for ambient air, indicating no residual alcohol

An air blank ensures the device reads 0.000 before the subject blows, confirming there is no residual alcohol in the device's breath chamber.

A BAT notices that the EBT's air blank reading is 0.003 before a subject test. What should the BAT do?

Answer: Terminate the testing sequence and troubleshoot or remove the device from service

Any non-zero air blank reading means the device is not registering a clean baseline and testing must not proceed until the issue is resolved.

When calibrating an EBT using a wet bath simulator, what is the importance of the simulator's water temperature?

Answer: Temperature directly affects the vapor pressure and thus the alcohol concentration delivered to the EBT

The alcohol vapor concentration produced by a wet bath simulator is temperature-dependent; precise temperature control is essential for accurate calibration.

Who is responsible for ensuring that an EBT used in DOT testing has a current, valid calibration before conducting employee tests?

Answer: The BAT or the organization responsible for the testing program

The BAT and the testing program operator are responsible for confirming that devices are properly calibrated and maintained before conducting DOT-required tests.

What must a BAT do if the EBT does not print a result after a confirmation breath alcohol test?

Answer: Discontinue testing and remove the device from service

An EBT used for confirmation testing must produce a printed result; failure to print requires removing the device from service.

How long must records of EBT calibration checks be retained under DOT regulations?

Answer: 5 years

DOT Part 40 requires that calibration records for EBTs be retained for a minimum of 5 years.

Which of the following best describes 'fuel cell technology' as used in many EBTs?

Answer: It electrochemically oxidizes alcohol to produce a measurable electrical current proportional to concentration

Fuel cell EBTs oxidize ethanol at an electrode, and the resulting electrical current is directly proportional to the alcohol concentration in the breath sample.