Section Iv Conducting A Subject Test; Initial Preparation; Operator Training; Preconditions For Conducting A Test - Intoximeters Alco-Sensor FST Operator's Manual

CONDUCTING A SUBJECT TEST
SECTION IV
CONDUCTING A SUBJECT TEST

Initial Preparation

Operator Training

The results from a properly calibrated Alco-Sensor FST are no better than the quality of the sample collected. A
deep lung sample is essential to produce a breath alcohol reading that will correlate with the alcohol concentration
of the blood. The Alco-Sensor FST sampling system is designed to ensure that a deep lung sample is collected for
analysis.
Even though the Alco-Sensor FST has a very simple sample collection process, training on the use of the
instrument is recommended. Training is available through a variety of mediums. Both Classroom and Computer
based training provided on a CD are available from Intoximeters. For further information on training sessions and
the availability of training tools contact Intoximeters Training Department.

Preconditions for Conducting a Test

Temperature Requirements

The Alco-Sensor FST is generally set up to operate at instrument temperatures of 0°C to 50°C (32°F to 122°F).
Customized software is available from Intoximeters that will allow the Alco-Sensor FST to operate in a broader or
narrower temperature range. When the unit is in its operating temperature range it will function properly in
climates where ambient temperatures are in the range of -15°C to 50°C (3°F to 122°F).

Calibration Requirements

The accuracy of a subject test result is dependent upon a properly calibrated instrument. To determine the accuracy of
an instrument an accuracy check should be performed periodically. An accuracy check is performed by introducing, to
the Alco-Sensor FST, a sample containing a known concentration of alcohol (what is referred to in this manual as a
Standard Sample). The reading provided by the instrument must be within the established tolerances of the target
value of the standard sample for the instrument to be considered properly calibrated or accurate. Because different
testing programs have different requirements for the instrument, the definition of accuracy is dictated by the tolerances
established in the protocols of a specific testing program. Know the established tolerances of your program before
conducting an accuracy check. If you don't have an established program, checking the instrument at no more than 31-
day intervals is a frequency that would be acceptable for most routinely used tolerance levels.
Your unit was calibrated at the factory before shipment. However, before using the instrument for subject testing you
should perform an accuracy check to ensure that the unit has maintained its calibration. To build a history of
instrument performance, record accuracy check and calibration results in a logbook along with the date of the test and
the expected or target value of the standard sample. (see also: Inspection and Routine Maintenance, page 24).

Preparing the Instrument for a Subject Test

Mouthpiece and Powering up the Alco-Sensor FST

For a subject test, an accuracy check or a calibration, always use a clean mouthpiece.
To avoid damaging the Alco-Sensor FST, the operator should be familiar with the correct procedure for attaching
the mouthpiece to the instrument.
The mouthpiece has both an open and a closed end. The open end should be made available for the subject to
blow into. The sealed, rounded end should be inserted into the mouthpiece channel on the top of the Alco-Sensor
FST.
In addition to the breath inlet hole there are three additional holes in the mouthpiece. One larger hole, on the top
of the mouthpiece toward the sealed end of the mouthpiece is the exit port for the subject's breath flow. There are
also two smaller holes on the bottom, or flat portion of the mouthpiece. When the mouthpiece is mounted properly
these holes will be seated on both the fuel cell inlet port and the flow sensor port.
Alco-Sensor FST Operator Manual, Page 13 of 33, 11/30/2017