Introduction; Policy And Legal Requirements; Theoretical Concepts Of The Calibration Procedure - Intoximeters Alco-Sensor FST Calibrator's Manual

2.0 I
NTRODUCTION
Enforcement of impaired driving remains as a high priority in policing operations. Much of this
enforcement is dependant on scientific instruments both for screening of alcohol and in evidentiary
results. Technology in breath alcohol testing is constantly evolving and improving. The Alco-Sensor
FST® is one of the new generation of screening devices and appeared on the approved screening device
order in 2009. In spite of the advanced technology in this screening device, its calibration must still be
monitored on a regular basis.
3.0 P L R
OLICY AND EGAL EQUIREMENTS
The calibration of approved screening devices shall be checked with an alcohol standard at least every 31
days by a Screening Device Calibration Technician. In order to be eligible to become a Screening
Device Calibration Technician, the person must be trained in the operation of the Approved Screening
Device and also be a current Qualified Technician in the operation of an approved instrument. There is
no Criminal Code designation for the calibration of screening devices. Additionally the Criminal Code
does not establish any requirements or restrictions on the calibration of such devices.
Requirements for calibration are established in policy, and through the "Recommended Standards and
Procedures" of the Canadian Society of Forensic Science - Alcohol Test Committee. For screening
devices the policy on calibration check intervals are based on scientific testing which determined the
stability of screening devices.
While the Criminal Code does not mandate calibration requirements, it is imperative that calibration
checks and procedures be conducted as set out in this manual. It must be kept in mind that the results
from approved screening devices are the basis upon which a demand for an evidentiary test is made. If
doubt can be cast on the proper functioning of the screening device, it is possible that the subsequent
evidentiary test results may be excluded as evidence and result in dismissal of the charge.
4.0 T C
HEORETICAL ONCEPTS OF THE
C P
ALIBRATION ROCEDURE
The calibration of the instrument is checked using the vapours of an alcohol standard of known value as
introduced through a simulator. This procedure is based on Henry's Law which states that the
concentration of alcohol in the vapour above a solution is dependent on the temperature and the
concentration of alcohol in the solution. For this reason it is important that the temperature of the
simulator be closely observed during the procedure. It is also important that the Alcohol Standard is one
that is approved by the Forensic Laboratory and is within the specified expiry date.
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A -S FST® C ' M
LCO ENSOR ALIBRATOR S ANUAL