Recommended Standards And Procedures Of The Canadian Society Of Forensic Science Alcohol Test Committee

Summary The standards and procedures presented are intended as recommendations that encourage the development of a quality system or best practices within a breath test program. They are not to be considered as required elements of proof in addition to those already provided in the Criminal Code. The Recommended Standards and Procedures reflect new developments in science, technology, and the law. The standards address five general areas: equipment, materials, general administrative considerations, training and designations, and maintenance and modifications. Standards for equipment pertain to approved instruments, approved screening devices, and approved containers for breath samples and blood samples. Standards regarding materials are intended to help manufacturers and purchasers develop and purchase equipment that measures specific materials as described in the standards. Standards for breathalyzer ampoules are also presented under the category of “Materials.” Under General Administrative Considerations, standards are presented for the qualifications of key personnel who are responsible for ensuring the alcohol testing system is properly designed and implemented. These personnel are the Program Director, Training Course Director, and Field Coordinators. Together, these personnel are responsible for ensuring that the major aspects of quality breath-testing operations are followed. The qualities and duties of each of these staff members are addressed in the standards. Standards that deal with Training and Designations pertain to approved instruments and approved screening devices. Standards for Maintenance and Modifications focus on inspections, field maintenance, qualifications of authorized service personnel, modifications, and maintenance logs. Recommended procedures encompass operational procedures and equipment evaluation procedures.