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FOCUS ON ALCOHOL TESTING BY BETYE BAILEY, INTOXIMETERS


Forensic Testing Procedures in a Medical Facility


I


t is always surprising to discover an alcohol testing program that does not utilize a logbook for its Evidential Breath Tester (EBT). Tis missing documentation can lead to problems if


the program is later faced with an audit or legal proceedings, since programs that fail to properly document their quality assurance practices are out of compliance with regulations.1 For the purposes of this analysis, the term “logbook” refers to


a Calibration Logbook, which keeps record of accuracy checks, calibrations, as well as instrument maintenance. Tis is a different document from a Breath Alcohol Technician (BAT) logbook, which holds records of every test and function conducted with a particular device. A well-maintained logbook provides proof that the


instrument has been maintained in accordance with the standards put forth in both regulations2


and the approved


Quality Assurance Plan (QAP) for that device. The logbook is the best way to demonstrate that a program is compliant and that an EBT is providing accurate results. Moreover, having a history of successful accuracy checks in the logbook builds a record of reliability for the device. Showing that an EBT device consistently passes its checks over extended periods reinforces its dependability. Anytime an audit occurs—regardless of the regulatory


agency—there is a strong likelihood that the logbook will be closely examined. Likewise, if a program ever has to defend the result of a breath alcohol test, its logbook will become a likely target of subpoena. In either situation, the logbook is brought under close scrutiny. In cases like these, it is essential that the logbook is completed properly. How well would your logbook hold up under close examination? Regulations3


completed logbook, this requirement cannot be met. Programs with missing or improperly completed logbooks are not in compliance with the Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations, and would therefore be unable to fully defend against any challenges to the accuracy of the device. Don’t let this happen to you! In a proper logbook, each field should be filled out in its entirety.


Te BAT should enter his or her name in the same way every time, making sure to avoid hash (#) marks and dito (”) marks. Below is a table listing the information that a proper logbook should contain:


Field


Test Number Date Time


Test Type: CHK (accuracy check) or CAL (Calibration Adjustment)


Technician Name


Test Location (city, ST)


Standard Lot # Tank #


Expiration date Expected Value


specify that records of inspection, maintenance, and calibration of a device are to be kept for two years. Without a properly Result Purpose


These fields provide unique identifiers for the Accuracy Checks and Calibrations documented in the logbook.


Identify the procedure performed.


Who conducted the procedure? (print name)


This is important in regards to the expected value of the standard.


This information is needed so the tank used can be identified and validated at a later date, if needed.


This is the target value of the gas standard. Some instruments provide this information automatically. In other cases, an alternative method may be needed to calculate this value.


This is the numerical result displayed on the EBT after the accuracy check. Caution: some EBT devices do not include a numerical result on the printout.


Passed?


This is important because not everyone reading the logbook may be aware of the proper range of tolerance.


You can find a quick tutorial for a correctly completed logbook entry on our Training Blog at htp://workplacealcoholtesting.com/blog/


50 datia focus spring 2017


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