Quality Assurance Protocols Flashcards

What is the purpose of an Alcohol Reference Solution (ARS) in evidential breath testing?

Answer: To verify the accuracy of the breath test instrument

An Alcohol Reference Solution is used to verify that the breath test instrument is producing accurate readings at a known alcohol concentration.

Under DOT regulations, how often must an external calibration check be performed on an Evidential Breath Testing device?

Answer: Every 14 days or 150 tests, whichever comes first

DOT regulations (49 CFR Part 40) require external calibration checks every 14 days or 150 tests, whichever occurs first.

Which document must be retained to demonstrate that an EBT passed its most recent calibration check?

Answer: The calibration check log or printout

A calibration check log or printout showing passing results must be retained as proof that the instrument was functioning correctly.

If the ARS reading on an EBT falls outside acceptable accuracy limits, the BAT must:

Answer: Take the device out of service immediately

If the ARS reading is outside acceptable limits, the EBT must be taken out of service until it is recalibrated and passes a new accuracy check.

What is the acceptable range for an ARS confirmation reading on an EBT set to target 0.080 g/210L?

Answer: 0.076–0.084 g/210L

DOT requires that an ARS reading fall within ±0.005 g/210L of the target value, so for a 0.080 target the range is 0.076–0.084.

Who is responsible for ensuring that an EBT used for DOT-mandated testing appears on the NHTSA Conforming Products List (CPL)?

Answer: The employer or testing facility

The employer or testing facility is responsible for ensuring only NHTSA CPL-listed devices are used for DOT-mandated breath alcohol testing.

During a quality assurance check, a BAT notices the EBT's printer is malfunctioning. What is the correct action?

Answer: Remove the device from service and use a backup EBT

If the EBT's printer fails, the device cannot produce the required printed result record, so the BAT must switch to a backup EBT.