Govt Approves New Breathalysers to Curb Drunk Driving

The government has gazetted new regulations approving two models of breathalysers for use by law enforcement agencies in a bid to curb drunk driving and reduce fatal road traffic accidents. The move follows a festive season where road accidents more than doubled compared to the previous year .

The regulations authorize the use of two internationally recognized devices: the ST FIT-333Gi, manufactured by AAT Limited of Hong Kong, and the AT9000, manufactured by Hanwei Electronics Group Corporation of China. These devices measure the concentration of alcohol in a driver's breath and convert it into a blood alcohol content (BAC) reading .

A motorist is required to blow into a disposable mouthpiece attached to the device, which produces an instant digital result. If a driver exceeds the legal alcohol limit, police can immediately bar them from continuing their journey and institute criminal proceedings. The devices also allow officers to conduct random roadside checks, night-time patrols, and targeted operations at accident black spots, entertainment districts, and major highways .

Traffic safety experts say consistent breath testing is one of the most effective deterrents against drunk driving, as motorists are less likely to take the risk of driving after drinking when they know they can be stopped and tested at any point. The approval of standardized breathalysers closes a long-standing enforcement gap that has often allowed intoxicated drivers to escape detection or prosecution due to lack of certified equipment .