Key Chain Breathalyzer: What It Is And How It Works

People cannot avoid drinking alcohol when they go out. However, it is their responsibility to make the right choices by staying sober, especially if they need to drive. A key chain breathalyzer can help in this case. It is a small and compact alcohol breath tester. Thus, they can bring it everywhere and test themselves when necessary. It works by blowing into the device. Afterwards, it analyses the Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) of its users.

Deaths involving drink driving are increasing in New Zealand. Hence, it is important to take appropriate measures to avoid more from happening. Law enforcement does random roadside alcohol breath tests on drivers. Those who have a higher BAC than the legal limit may face penalties. To prevent the consequences of drink driving, learn what the small breathalyzer is, how it works, and its benefits in the following sections.

What Is A Key Chain Breathalyzer?

A breathalyzer is a device that determines how much alcohol is in the system of a person. When people breathe into the device, it estimates their BAC or detects the amount of alcohol in the blood. Typically, authorities use it to test suspected intoxicated drivers. Nowadays, personal units, like the key chain breathalyzer, are available in the market. It is a useful tool in staying safe.

The key chain version of breathalyzers is compact and small. It can even be the same size as a car key. The units are designed in such a way to encourage individuals to use them when they drink. Moreover, if the unit is chained to the car key, they can test themselves before starting the ignition. This leads to making more informed decisions.

There are various brands available. People should research well to acquire a good-quality device. The most important feature of a breath tester is its accuracy. Otherwise, low-quality breathalyzers may only result in false positives. One of the most trusted breathalyzers is the BACtrack from Breathalysers New Zealand.

BAC Levels

In New Zealand, the BAC of people should not be higher than 0.05%. To understand the effects of alcohol depending on the BAC, read below:

• 0.01 – 0.05 = People are alert and can be in a relaxed state, but slight buzzing might occur.
• 0.06 – 0.10 = They feel sleepier and more emotional. There may also be a reduction in memory.
• 0.11 – 0.20 = This state may cause them to commit inappropriate actions.
• 0.21 – 0.30 = Aggression and depression might arise.
• 0.31 – 0.40 = They may fall unconscious or be in a coma.
• 0.41 and above = These levels can be fatal.

How Does A Key Chain Breathalyzer Work and What are the Factors that may Affect the Results?

A key chain breathalyzer calculates the BAC of people. It analyses the amount of alcohol present in an individual as they blow deep lung air into the mouthpiece. When they drink alcohol, the intestine absorbs its compounds directly, which enters the bloodstream eventually. The alcohol compounds can end up in the breath, sweat, and urine of the body before they reach the liver. This is because the blood circulates throughout the body.

People should understand that several factors may affect the results, not just the alcohol content. For instance, consuming food slows down the rate of the alcohol passing through the body. In addition, fats in the body do not absorb alcohol. Hence, alcohol is more concentrated for people with higher body fat. Gender may affect it as well. Women have more fatty tissues than men, which is why they have higher alcohol concentrations.

Individuals should recognize these things so that they can utilize the breath tester more. Overall, having a breathalyzer that they can bring anywhere and anytime is beneficial.

How to Use It

To start using the breathalyzer, people should prepare the mouthpiece of the device and ensure it is clean. They can turn it on after and then wait 15-20 seconds for the device to warm up. When it is ready, they can blow into the mouthpiece for a few seconds.

Wait for a moment as it analyses the breath sample. The device will display the result for several seconds. Turning off the device comes afterwards. They can do a retest whenever necessary. Avoid getting saliva or alcohol into the mouthpiece, as it may damage the device.

Benefits of A Key Chain Breathalyzer

There are many benefits to having a key chain breathalyzer. Firstly, it provides safety. Some people might feel fine after drinking, but alcohol can impair judgment. Hence, they need a tool to ensure that they are not intoxicated. It is better to be certain to avoid trouble. They can prevent accidents, and they can protect themselves from fatal injuries. Furthermore, those who avoid drink driving can help keep the community away from harm.

Secondly, they can avoid Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD). Having a device like a small breath tester helps them manage their drinking. They need to stay within the required BAC or their goals, and if not, they can stop drinking. It is not easy to control something that can be addicting. Thus, it is necessary to get all the help they can.

Lastly, it is convenient. The portability of the device allows them to carry it when people go out. They can attach it to their bags or other keys. It is beneficial to have it visible so that they can be reminded of testing whenever they drink.

Factors to Consider Before Buying One

One of the factors before getting a device is the accuracy. The keychain breath tester is accurate. However, professional-grade breathalyzers have more advanced sensor technology, making the BAC reading more exact. An example of a good personal breathalyzer is the BACtrack Mobile Pro.

Another factor to consider is the price and quality. Some devices are more expensive than others. Typically, they may have more advanced features that add to their reliability. Thus, individuals may check and compare each unit to see which better suits their lifestyle. It is good to weigh the pros and cons for better decision-making.

Conclusion

People must consider the law and the consequences they can face if they drive while being intoxicated. Others have lost their jobs and reputations because of this. Fortunately, breath testers can help prevent accidents. They can buy key chain breathalyzers that will serve as a tool to let them know if they can drive or not. Moreover, it keeps people on track of their drinking to manage it.

A breath tester, in general, supports law enforcement in its goal to lessen drink driving accidents. It analyses the BAC, and individuals must be below the legal limit. Otherwise, they may face charges and penalties. Moreover, a breathalyzer is a convenient device. Hence, it is beneficial to own one, especially since they are easy to operate. Visit Breathalysers New Zealand for more breathalyzers for personal or workplace use. They also offer services for the units that require recalibration.