To help keep people safe on the road, federal Department of Transportation rules require that employers in certain industries — aviation, trucking, railroad, transit, pipeline and maritime, for example — participate in breath alcohol testing programs.
These programs generally involve someone from the company performing regular and random DOT-compliant tests on employees. The DOT requires that breath alcohol testers be trained according to a specific model curriculum.
That’s where Bostec comes in.
The company’s founder, Rich Bosman, is a certified master trainer who conducts classes up and down the West Coast.
What does the training involve?
DOT-compliant breath alcohol training has two parts: rules and regulations training and instrument proficiency training.
To learn the how and why of breath alcohol testing, students spend a day in the classroom. For in-person classes, plan for an 8-hour day, including lunch and breaks. An online version also is available.
After filling up on head knowledge, students put what they’ve learned into practice, administering alcohol tests using an approved evidential breath testing instrument. To become qualified to administer tests, students must perform at least seven error-free mock tests on live subjects using their EBT instrument. The rules require that these mock tests be done in person and monitored by a qualified instructor.
Bosman is a qualified instructor for most EBT equipment manufactured by Intoximeters, an industry leader in breath alcohol testing. BAT students who successfully complete Bostec’s course will receive Intoximeters factory certification.
Continuing education for breath alcohol technicians
According to DOT guidelines, breath alcohol technician training is required at least every five years. The refresher training includes three hours of rules and regulation instruction.
Can anyone take the training?
The training is open to all. In addition to regulated industries, the DOT’s BAT curriculum is also used by other companies wanting to increase workplace safety.
In addition, Bostec’s training is appropriate for all workplace, maritime and industrial testing scenarios, whether regulated by Department of Transportation, Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Department of Energy or United States Coast Guard.
What other training is available?
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In addition to the one-day BAT training, Bostec offers a one-day urine collector course. Courses also are available for anyone wanting to become an instructor for BAT and urine collection classes.
For more information or to sign up, please call Bostec at 360-354-3325 or email bostec@bostec.com.