Testing Guidelines & Precautions


Sections:

  1. Testing Procedures
  2. Testing Precautions
  3. Non-Compliant Results & Environmental Alcohol Signals


1. Testing Procedures

These requirements must be adhered to by any person(s) using the BACtrack breathalyzer. If they are not followed, the monitor may consider the test invalid and request another test be taken. 


  • Wait at least 15-20 minutes after drinking, eating, or smoking before using the BACtrack breathalyzer. Failure to observe this waiting period may cause inaccurate readings and damage the device’s fuel cell sensor.
  • Do not tamper with, obstruct, or damage the BACtrack breathalyzer.
  • BACtrack View requires an active and stable internet connection in order for tests to be taken. Both Wi-Fi and Cellular Data connections will work.
    • However, if you do not have a stable internet connection, your readings and/or video may not upload, or there may be a delay in the upload process.
  • Before the testing process, please remove anything that obscures your face (hat, sunglasses, etc.). 
  • When you begin testing, hold your smartphone at eye level and ensure your face and the BACtrack breathalyzer are completely in the video frame. Throughout the testing, look directly into the camera lens.
  • Do not permit any item to block a user’s ability to breathe into the BACtrack breathalyzer.
  • Blow steadily and consistently for the entire 5-6 seconds of the test.

2. Testing Precautions

These precautions are meant to inform all users on the topics below:

A. Potential interfering substances and storage

B. How to appropriately test with your BACtrack breathalyzer

C. Calibration and BACtrack Performance 


A. Potential interference 

      • Do not use the BACtrack in the presence of any of the below substances:
        • Methyl alcohol
        • Isopropyl alcohol
        • Acetone
        • Any other substances that contain alcohol or similar substances.
      • Do not ingest anything that contains such substances 20 minutes before using the BACtrack breathalyzer. These substances may interfere with test results and trigger a positive BAC result.
      • Do not store the BACtrack breathalyzer near any of the following: perfume, alcohol-based cleaners or hand sanitizers.
      • Store the breathalyzer inside the provided case when not in use.
      • Wash and/or replace the BACtrack breathalyzer mouthpiece AT LEAST once a month and if a non compliant result is received. 
      • Do not use or store the BACtrack device in temperatures below 32 ºF or above 104 ºF.
        • Do not leave your BACtrack in a motor vehicle for extended periods of time due to temperature fluctuations.

B. Appropriate Testing 

      • Make sure you have not consumed any food/drink for at least 15-20 minutes before testing.
      • Do not test in areas where large amounts of alcohol are being consumed or in areas with strong winds, smoke, or chemical substances.
      • Do not blow smoke, food, or liquids into the BACtrack breathalyzer, as this may damage the sensor.

C. A note on calibration and performance 

      • All BACtrack breathalyzers require calibration to ensure optimal performance. To ensure you have your BACtrack with you at all times, BACtrack provides a courtesy service to replace devices after 10 months rather than needing a tester to send the BACtrack breathalyzer in and wait for the time required for calibration.
      • Please email support@bactrack.com when you’ve had the BACtrack breathalyzer for 10 months to request a brand new device and we will provide a shipping label to send the current device back as well.


  1. Non-Compliant Results & Environmental Alcohol Signals

A non-compliant result is a test result that is above the tester/self tester’s %BAC threshold, set to 0.000% BAC by default. Below, please find details on potential non-compliant results.


It is possible that a non-compliant reading is indicating the presence of other types of alcohol (examples: mouthwash or medications.) However, the BACtrack breathalyzer is accurately identifying the presence of alcohol.


  • Examples of common foreign substances that may cause an environmental alcohol signal include, but are not limited to:
    1. Cold, Cough, Allergy & Other Prescription Medications (Please consult with your medical provider regarding any medications you are taking)
    2. Hand Sanitizers & Other Alcohol-Based Hygiene Products
    3. Sunscreens, Lotions & Hairsprays
    4. Perfumes, Colognes & Aftershaves
    5. Mouthwashes, Toothpastes, Gum & Breath Strips
    6. Household Cleaners & Disinfectants
    7. Energy Drinks & Kombuchas
    8. Salad Dressings, Soy Sauces & Vinegar

  • If a non-compliant result is received, please follow the steps below:
    1. Check for any external sources of environmental alcohol signals.
    2. Clean or replace the current mouthpiece on the BACtrack breathalyzer.
    3. If the tester/self tester is aware of an external alcohol source, make sure to remove it and/or get the BACtrack breathalyzer far away from it.
    4. The tester/self tester should wait 15 minutes, and then test again.
    5. Continue retesting every 15 minutes until a compliant result is obtained.

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