What does 49 CFR 40.253 (What are the procedures for conducting an alcohol confirmation test?) require?

As a motor-carrier owner, you should know that 49 CFR 40.253 requires the Breath Alcohol Technician (BAT) to follow these specific steps in order:

1. Conduct an air blank: In the employee's presence, run an air blank on the EBT and show the reading to the employee.

• If it reads 0.00, proceed with the test.
• If it is greater than 0.00, run a second air blank. If the second reading is 0.00, proceed. If the second reading is still greater than 0.00, take the EBT out of service (it cannot be used again until it passes an external calibration check). If another EBT is available, use it to proceed with the employee's test.

2. Use a new mouthpiece: Open a new, individually wrapped or sealed mouthpiece in front of the employee and insert it into the device following the manufacturer's instructions according to 49 CFR 40.253.

3. Verify the test number: Ensure both you and the employee read the unique test number displayed on the EBT.

4. Collect the breath sample: Instruct the employee to blow steadily and forcefully into the mouthpiece for at least six seconds, or until the device indicates an adequate breath sample has been given.

5. Show the test result: Show the displayed result to the employee.

6. Show the printed result and number: Show the employee the result and unique test number printed out by the EBT (either directly onto the Alcohol Testing Form (ATF) or on a separate printout).

7. Attach the printout (if applicable): If the EBT uses a separate printout for the result, attach it to the designated space on the ATF using tamper-evident tape or a tamper-evident self-adhesive label.