By Bill Schiffner

Preventing alcohol and drug-related accidents is a national priority. Technological advancements have made an impact in many industries and the area of drug and alcohol testing is no exception.
 
Ignition interlock devices have been proven to dramatically reduce the rates of repeat DUI offenses.  These devices are updated frequently with new features to help prevent new methods of circumnavigation. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), ignition interlocks are effective in saving lives and reducing drunk driving repeat offenses by 67 percent. “First-time” offenders are rarely first-time drunk drivers,” MADD’s statement notes. “Conservative estimates show that a first-time convicted DUII offender has driven drunk at least 80 times prior to being arrested.”
 
Specifically, all offender interlock laws, when implemented correctly, are found to reduce repeat offenses significantly. In addition, MADD reports that states requiring all convicted drunk drivers to use an ignition interlock—including Arizona, Oregon, New Mexico and Louisiana—have cut DUI deaths by over 30 percent. Since implementation of the interlocks law in 2008, Oregon, in particular, has seen a decline in drunk driving deaths of 42.7 percent, twice the national decline.
 
“The ignition interlock system is a cost-effective program to ensure individuals do not drive while under the influence of alcohol,” states Nic Vodicka, Smart Start Inc., Grapevine, Texas.  “Ignition Interlocks continuously monitor the offender while they continue to drive, SAFELY.  Simply put, ignition interlocks save lives.”
Here’s a look at some of the latest interlock systems and other testing devices on the market that are helping aid drug courts and keeping the roadways safer:
 


Detachable Handheld Unit
The Brac Audit Lock-1 has easy to read, easy to use functionality with a detachable handheld unit resulting in quicker service time for a customer.  Allan Taylor, executive member at Instant Interlock, LLC, says the device offers a number of competitive advantages: its manufactures products to meet individual state requirements, not the one-size-fits-all mentality; dual fuel cell technology that helps insure against false positives and hassle from unnecessary resets; and recurring automated bill pay system saves time for customers.
www.instantinterlock.com, 1.800.957.0036





 
Tamper-Resistant Device
The Alcolock (Series III) Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device (BAIID) is accurate and programmable with tamper-resistant vehicle ignition interlock. Features a personal security code that must be entered on the keyboard. Blood alcohol content (BAC) is accurately measured from a 4 second breath sample. Three-place digital display (0.000%-0.200%) shows % of BAC with “Pass” or “Fail” indicator.
www.autosenseintl.com, 1.800.325.2657
 


Customizable Tests for Each State
The Low Cost Interlock TAB-720 is designed to meet all federal qualifications for accuracy and performance. Random testing and early recall for violations are completely configurable and can be tailored for any state. “The LCI automated calibration system utilizes a dry gas standard to obtain the most accurate calibrations possible. Secure data encryption and automated uploads prevent data tampering at the service level,” says Justin Ward, VP Operations.
www.lowcostinterlock.com, 1.800.352.4872
 





On Board Camera System
“Our latest unit, the WC900, has a wireless handset and camera with a 2.4-inch true color touch screen display. The camera takes full cockpit pictures during every breath test and has data storage of over 30,000 images. Temperature and humidity sensors are used to determine human breath. It is also capable of detecting bypasses by the wiring harness or starter. GPS and two-way communications have also been added,” says Nick Doinoff, CEO, BEST Labs Inc.
www.bestlabsinc.com, 1.877.237.1541
 





Portable Systems
Both the AlcoAlert Series 3000 and AlcoAlert Series 5000 Ignition Interlock Devices are certified by an independent laboratory to be fully compliant with the NHTSA. Hoyt Isom, president at AlcoAlert says they offer NexGen fuel cell with counter measure proofing. It is Easy-Read Court friendly, and has Camera ID, GPS tracking, report customization and device read-out control Pass/Fail or BAC options. In addition, they offer 24/7 nationwide service, guaranteed lowest cost and financing with IISCC.com.
www.alcoalertinterlock.com, 1-888-NO-DWUIS
 
Affordable Alternative
The Smart Start IN-HOM unit is an affordable alternative for the offender who does not have a vehicle, yet needs some form of alcohol monitoring.  “It is device equipped with a camera, allowing for positive photo identification,” says Smart Start’s Vodicka. “This Smart Start product has an extremely affordable price point versus similar competitor devices. The IN-HOM device has had a very positive effect on drug court programs throughout the nation.  From the quick and accurate reporting process, customizable testing windows and being more cost effective than other similar devices, the IN-HOM is the ideal device for those who need alcohol monitoring but do not have access to a vehicle,” he explains.
www.smartstartinc.com, 1.800.880.3394
 
Automotive Alcohol Detection System
The Determinator from Alcohol Detection Systems is an ignition interlock device that analyzes blood alcohol content and determines if a driver is within a legal limit to get behind the wheel. The system’s computer records all test and pertinent driving data. This is downloadable and printable. Any attempt at tampering with the unit registers in this data log as well.
https://www.stopdwi.com, 1.800.STOP.DWI

 
Integrated Technology
Debuting this April, the Dräger Interlock 7000 is the culmination of more than seven years of development, notes the firm. Dräger’s newest interlock seamlessly integrates an intelligent camera system and GPS/ GPRS technology, which they report is the first time that a single unit has combined the most recent innovations into one device.  Additional features support circumvention prevention and location services to meet specific local law enforcement requirements.
www.draeger.com, 1.866.385.5900
 





Alcohol Monitoring
SCRAM Continuous Alcohol Monitoring (CAM) is the most widely used CAM product in the world, notes the company. Extensively peer-reviewed and court validated, SCRAM sets the bar as a proven deterrent to drinking. On any given day, SCRAM CAM generates an average 99.3% Sober Days rate, meaning that 99.3% of all offenders being monitored by the product are sober and fully compliant with court orders.
www.alcoholmonitoring.com, 1.800.557.0861
 
Web-Based Call System
Call2test is a randomized, web-based, call-in system for drug and alcohol testing and probation reporting.  It can be configured in less than 60 seconds, is fully automated, and can be used by courts of any size.  By utilizing existing Interactive voice response technologies, call2test is able to provide service at a low cost per offender, the company reports. 
call2test.com, 1.888.972.9166
 
Automated Breath Alcohol Test
MobileBreath is reliable and fast and automates breath testing. With a 30-second enrollee administered BA screen it will detect down to .001 BAC. Results can be emailed or text messaged to an administrator or case manager instantly. MobileBreath technology is the only mobile system that uses face and voice biometrics to validate an enrollee’s identity on each required test. The system transmits Breath Alcohol level and identity data using cellular technology.
www.streetimetechnologies.com, 1.877.727.7764
 
24/7 Sobriety Program
Intoximeters is highly involved in the 24/7 Sobriety Program, a law enforcement concept that many U.S. states have begun adopting to reduce recidivism associated with drunk driving. It mandates offender sobriety through testing for drugs and alcohol. It allows offenders to remain functioning members of society if they abstain from alcohol and/or drug use. The monitoring techniques are believed to be directly related to the long-term impact on reducing recidivism.
www.24x7sober.com, 314.429.4000
 
Compact Mobile Unit
The Guardian AMS 2000 offers a compact design that is slightly larger than a standard cell phone. It offers reliable data logging and enhanced anti-circumvention detection. Unit also features USB connection capability which allows for effortless downloading of events, without having to connect the base unit in the vehicle. Additionally, participants may call a toll-free number to access technical and service personnel.
www.guardianinterlock.com, 1.800.499.0994
 
Target-tracking Camera System
The LifeSafer FC100 Ignition Interlock offers an exclusive patent-pending target-tracking camera system. It offers real-time reporting of violations and vehicle location. Indicator light signals handset-to-camera link, enabling test to begin. It can be separately mounted near the rearview mirror without obstructing the driver’s view. Other features include programmable test times for cost-effective alcohol consumption monitoring.
www.lifesafer.com, 1.800.634.3077