Ignition Interlock: Definition, How It Works, & Its Benefits

An ignition interlock device is a type of breathalyser installed into vehicles to prevent individuals from driving if their Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) levels are above the prescribed limit. It uses fuel cell sensors to analyse the breath samples and determine the BAC level. Only when the driver provides a passing breath sample can they start the car. One of its benefits is reducing the risk of roadside accidents due to alcohol intoxication.

Drink driving is a major cause of road accidents, leading to many injuries and fatalities. As such, it is a severe offence that can have several penalties. An interlock condition is a penalty usually imposed on people who have committed high-risk drink driving offences. It requires program participants to install interlocks into their registered vehicle for a minimum period of six months. This article will present information on interlock devices, how they work, and their benefits.

What is an Ignition Interlock?

An ignition interlock is essentially a breathalyser installed in a vehicle that requires the driver to pass a breath test before starting the car. This device connects to the ignition system and the service provider programs it to accept specific BAC limits. Typically, they can accept zero BAC only. However, some states may allow up to 0.02% BAC.

Generally, interlock devices use fuel cell sensors to ensure accurate BAC readings. They may also have additional features to verify compliance and avoid tampering. Modern devices may connect to WIFI for GPS tracking and cameras to take videos or pictures during tests. The interlock does require calibration services during set periods to maintain their reliability. Otherwise, the sensors may drift and produce inaccurate results, affecting the records of the individual.

Furthermore, this device is typically used by program participants of a mandatory alcohol interlock program. However, organisations can also install these devices on private vehicles to prevent employees from driving company cars or heavy vehicles while intoxicated.

History and Development of Ignition Alcohol Interlock Technology

• In 1969, the Borg-Warner corporation created the prototype for a performance-based alcohol interlock device.
• During the 1980s, Jeffrey Feit proposed a schematic concept incorporating breath test equipment.
• Soon after, Hans Dorsen presented a working model of the interlock device with a breathalyser.
• By the 1990s, additional features, such as rolling retests, became more commonplace to boost the effectiveness of the interlock device.
• Further technological advancements contributed to more sophisticated and effective interlock systems that can more accurately measure BAC levels using fuel cell sensors and prevent tampering.
• Today, GPS tracking and photo identification have also become available to monitor driving behaviours.

How Ignition Interlock Devices Work

Alcohol ignition interlock devices prevent drivers from starting the vehicle if their breath samples exceed the BAC level limit. The breath testing equipment requires the driver to blow into a tube or mouthpiece to provide sufficient breath sample volume. Then, the sensors analyse the breath specimen and show the result.

If the measured BAC falls below the set alcohol limit, the device will allow the driver to start the car. However, exceeding the pre-set limit will keep the engine locked. To operate the motor vehicle, they must conduct a retest once they are sober. If they continuously fail the test, they may get locked out and require them to contact their interlock service provider to unlock.

Furthermore, the device will also prompt for rolling tests throughout the journey. This precaution helps ensure the driver is not drinking while driving. Failing to comply with these random retests may cause an alarm to sound. Furthermore, the device may record it as a missed test. Hence, this may become an issue when the supervising authority checks the records and finds violations of the interlock condition.

The Interlock Condition

The interlock condition in Australia is a penalty for high-risk drinking offences, such as high-range drink driving or multiple charges of driving under the influence. It requires an individual to participate in an interlock program that may last months to years.

However, an individual must first submit the requirements for an interlock licence to become a program participant, such as a medical certificate from a professional. Then, they must set an installation appointment with an authorised interlock service provider. Through the program, they must maintain the accuracy of the device with regular calibration and comply with the program rules.

Benefits of Using Ignition Interlock Devices

There are several benefits to using ignition interlock devices. Firstly, it reduces the risks of getting into alcohol-related incidents. This can prevent injuries and fatalities from road crashes and increase overall road safety. Secondly, it stops individuals with drink driving histories from committing further violations. By requiring an alcohol-free breath sample, individuals effectively become restricted from driving under the influence of alcohol.

Thirdly, installing interlock systems promotes responsible drinking and driving behaviour. It helps instil conscientious practices that interlock drivers may follow even after the program. This includes reducing alcohol consumption and waiting until fully sober to drive. As such, many private vehicles also use these devices to have better control of their actions and establish accountability.

Furthermore, organisations benefit from installing interlock units since they can monitor compliance with the interlock program or company policy. Since the machine records all test results, they can easily view the reports to assess their conduct and ensure they are worthy before restoring their driving privileges. Lastly, it can provide crucial information for treating those with alcohol use disorders.

Financial Assistance for Installing the Device

Participating in an interlock program also requires the individual to cover the installation costs of the interlock unit. Various financial assistance programs are available to help people with financial difficulties participate in the program. Individuals must research this since interlock costs can reach up to $2,200 yearly.

Some programs offer subsidies or grants to help cover the cost of purchasing and installing the device if the individual fulfils the requirements. For example, Queensland accepts financial assistance applications to help pay the charges for installation, rental, servicing, and removal of the interlock unit. Some states also have gold card benefits.

Conclusion

An ignition interlock device is an effective tool for preventing individuals from driving while intoxicated. It is a device installed into motor vehicles that analyses the breath sample of the driver before determining if they can operate the car. The device uses accurate fuel cell sensors and undergoes regular calibration to ensure accuracy and reliability. The device usually has a zero or 0.02% BAC limit. It also records the results of each test.

Installing this device is a requirement under an interlock program. It has features like GPS tracking and photo verification to ensure compliance with the program. Moreover, it also prompts random retests during the journey to prevent drivers from drinking while driving. The benefits of installing this device include promoting safe drinking habits, effective compliance monitoring, and preventing individuals from breaking drink-driving laws. Those with financial difficulties may seek assistance programs to help them pay the interlock costs.