Breathalyzers fail test, offer 'false sense of security': CAA-Quebec
Company says devices help people make better decisions
CAA-Quebec and consumer protection magazine Protégez-Vous say that breathalyzers offer a 'false sense of security,' after they tested 10 breathalyzer models sold in Quebec.
Six participants tested the models in labs at the province's Public Security Ministry.
Comparing their alcohol levels to the device used by provincial police, the results were less than accurate.
Of 10 tested, only four showed reliable results and even those weren't recommended.
"To ensure a good and correct result, the way to use the device is really, really important," said SAQ spokesperson Linda Gauthier.
"One of the things is to make sure the breathalyzers are calibrated before using them."
Having the models recalibrated every year involves a $50 cost or sending it back to the manufacturer or distributor.
Model sold at SAQ performs poorly
The two models which performed the most poorly were those sold on sites such as Groupon, as well as the one sold at the SAQ.
Gauthier says the models sold in stores are complementary to the liquor it sells but that all require a certificate of conformity from the supplier.
"The SAQ is not pretending to be specialized in this field. However, we believe that it is still better to propose a tool that, while not the most effective, acts as an indicator that can sensitize the clientele to responsible consumption," she wrote CBC in an email.
"These breathalyzers should not be substitution for good consumer judgement."
Simple solution
Gauthier says the results of the tests show it's not worth the risk to rely on a breathalyzer when deciding whether to drive.
"The best thing to do is when you drink, you don't drive," she said.
"There's many ways to go back home in a safe way."
Gauthier says many people are unaware that the results of store-bought breathalyzers are not admissible in court.
Breathalyzer company responds
Stéphane Maurais, the director general of Alco Prevention Canada, says he's disappointed with how the results were framed.
The company had four of its devices tested in the study, two of which tested the highest in terms of reliability.
"These [devices] are made for personal health reasons, to make a good decision," he said.
"These units are not made to fight against the law."
Maurais says none of the companies, including his competitors, have ever marketed breathalyzers as a tool to use in court.
As for calibrating the devices, he compares it to making an oil change in your car.
"You need to do some servicing on it. Once a year, you have to calibrate your unit to ensure it works accurately," he said.
With files from Alison Northcott