Breath Alcohol

Breath alcohol analysis measures the amount of alcohol (ethanol) in an individual breath sample. This analysis utilizes a technique called infrared spectrophotometry that measures the amount of alcohol in a person’s breath based on the absorbance of infrared light by the breath sample in the instrument. This analysis is performed by trained law enforcement officers in the field on one of approximately 350 instruments statewide. 

The Scientific Analysis Bureau provides breath alcohol instrument training and support at the Central Regional Crime Laboratory, with assistance from the other three regional labs.