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NEW DELHI: Beginning April, breath analysers, used to measure blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of drivers or employees, will be required to comply with the newly notified norms issued by the consumer affairs department. The updated standards aim at enhancing accuracy, consistency and credibility of the devices, which play a critical role in law enforcement and workplace safety.Under the revised norms, breath analysers must meet strict limits on permissible error and incorporate a built-in printing mechanism. Significantly, the device will not operate if the printing paper is missing, ensuring that every test conducted is accompanied by a printed record for verification and legal use. Moreover, the device will display only the final measurement result, reducing chances of misinterpretation or tampering during testing.Officials said these measures seek to bolster public trust in the fairness and accuracy of enforcement actions related to drunk driving and workplace safety. The updated devices are designed to deliver rapid and reliable readings, enabling police officers and authorised personnel to make swift, well-informed decisions during checks. This is expected to significantly improve the efficiency of roadside enforcement operations.The norms fall under the amended Legal Metrology Rules, which also outline procedures for verification and scheduled re-verification of instruments. Regular checks will ensure that breath analysers remain accurate throughout their lifecycle and during field use.Traffic police across major cities have increasingly relied on breath analysers to curb drunk driving, especially during late-night patrols and holiday seasons. Road safety experts emphasised that the standardisation of these devices was long overdue, noting that inconsistent readings have often been challenged in courts. The new norms, they said, will help reduce disputes, strengthen prosecution in drunk-driving cases, and contribute to safer roads nationwide.
