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Alcoblow Workplace Alcohol Breathalyzer Testing Standard Operating Policy & Procedures

“Safety, Accuracy, Compliance.”

This Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) describes how Alcoblow ensures strict zero-tolerance to alcohol in the workplace (0.00% BAC), the processes for detecting alcohol, and the internal steps followed thereafter. It aligns with our product offerings, calibration services, and customer-support philosophy.

1. Purpose

To provide a clear, transparent, and enforceable procedure for alcohol testing in workplaces, minimizing risks, improving safety, ensuring legal compliance, and reinforcing a culture of sobriety and accountability.

2. Scope

This procedure applies to:

  • All employees, contractors, drivers, and visitors who are working for or with Alcoblow or Alcoblow clients.
  • All company locations, sites, offices, workshops, company vehicles, or any premises under Alcoblow / client control.

3. Policy Statement

  • Alcoblow enforces a 0.00% blood alcohol concentration (BAC) policy.
  • Any detected BAC above 0.00% triggers immediate Internal Alcohol Procedures.
  • Testing is done fairly, confidentially, using certified devices and trained personnel.

4. Responsibilities

Role Key Duties
Management Policy enforcement, provision of devices & calibrations, oversight of procedure, approving disciplinary actions.
Supervisors / SHE Officers Identifying triggers, initiating tests, executing procedures correctly.
Calibration & Technical Staff Maintaining accuracy of equipment, ensuring devices are calibrated (see our Calibration Services page).
All Personnel Cooperation, honesty, understanding of the policy, awareness of rights & obligations.

5. Triggers for Testing

Testing may be required under any of the following conditions:

  1. Pre-Employment / Pre-Access – before starting work or accessing restricted premises.
  2. Random Testing – unannounced during work hours to maintain compliance.
  3. Reasonable Suspicion – signs such as smell of alcohol, impaired performance, behavior, or appearance.
  4. Post-Incident / Accident – following accidents, near misses, or safety-related incidents.
  5. Periodic / Scheduled – regular health & safety program checks.

6. Procedure for Alcohol Testing

Step 1 – Preparation

  • Confirm device is calibrated and within its scheduled calibration period. (See Alcoblow Calibration Services).
  • Explain the test to the person involved, obtain verbal consent.
  • Ensure privacy and dignity during testing.

Step 2 – Testing (Methods)

Two main types of testing may be used, depending on the situation:

A. Direct (Contact) Testing

  • Use a mouthpiece or paper straw.
  • Person blows steadily into the device until instructed.
  • Used when precision or confirmatory results are required.

B. Non-Contact (Screening) Testing

  • Using kiosk or handheld non-contact devices (sensor based).
  • Person blows near the sensor without physically touching device.
  • Used for rapid screening (entry points, large numbers).
  • If non-contact test indicates alcohol present, a confirmatory direct test must follow.
  • Record results: time, device used, method (contact or non-contact), tester, and if applicable, witness.

Step 3 – Results & Thresholds

  • 0.00% BAC → Person cleared for duty.
  • > 0.00% BAC → Initiate Internal Alcohol Procedures immediately.

Step 4 – Internal Alcohol Procedures (for Result > 0.00%)

  1. Remove the individual from duty immediately in a safe and respectful manner.
  2. Log the result (date, time, device, method, tester, witness) in a secure Alcohol Testing Logbook.
  3. Administer a confirmatory test using direct/contact method within 10-15 minutes.
  4. Notify supervisor, HR, and relevant managers.
  5. Escalation options:
    • First-offender or minor — counseling, warnings.
    • Repeated or hazardous role (e.g. driver, heavy machinery) — stricter discipline.
    • Gross misconduct / safety risk — potential termination.

Step 5 – Documentation

  • Fill in an official Alcohol Test Report Form.
  • Store records in confidential HR or SHE files.
  • Maintain copies for regulatory compliance and for any audits.

7. Equipment & Calibration

  • All devices, including AlcoblowPro® range, must be maintained, cleaned, and stored correctly. Refer to our Products catalog for device specifications.
  • Devices must undergo regular calibration (recommended every 6-12 months or after certain usage thresholds). See our Calibration Services section.
  • Use certified test gases, follow manufacturer guidelines.

8. Training & Awareness

  • Supervisors / SHE Officers trained on device use, interpreting results, maintaining fairness and confidentiality.
  • All employees made aware at induction; periodic refreshers held.
  • Policy, SOPs, and consequences clearly communicated.

9. Confidentiality & Compliance

  • Test results are confidential; only shared with those who have legitimate “need to know” (HR, supervisor, legal, safety).
  • Data protection rules apply; records securely stored, with restricted access.
  • Records retained as required by law or company policy.

10. Review & Audit

  • This SOP will be reviewed annually or in response to changes in law / practices.
  • Internal audits carried out by SHE / Compliance teams to ensure adherence.
  • Feedback collected from stakeholders to improve the SOP.

11. Links & Resources

Alcoblow Solutions Ltd is committed to delivering safe, accurate, and compliant workplace alcohol testing. For consultations, quotes, or custom-SOP integration, please reach out via our Contact Us page above.