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Breath Alcohol Technician and Screening Test Technician

Overview

The Breath Alcohol Technician (BAT) and/or Screening Test Technician (STT) is a person who instructs and assists employees in the alcohol testing process and operates an evidential breath testing or alcohol screening device, respectively.

The BAT and STT play a vital role in the success of the DOT alcohol testing program. The STT and BAT directly interact with the employee and instantaneously provide the employee with an alcohol test result. As such, the BAT and/or STT must be knowledgeable and proficient in the testing procedures.

The testing procedures for breath or saliva specimens as outlined in 49 CFR Part 40 are very specific and must be followed whenever a DOT-required alcohol test is requested by the employer. These procedures, including the use of the Federal Alcohol Testing Form (ATF), apply only to DOT-required testing.

Applicable Regulations

With the above in mind, it is important for technicians to fully understand the regulations and follow the established testing procedures. Therefore, technicians should familiarize themselves with 49 CFR Part 40, while paying particular attention to the following Subparts:

Documents/Publications

Association/Industry Links

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Last updated: Monday, December 18, 2023