Alcohol and drug testing equipment provider ALCO-Safe recently launched the latest version of its workplace alcohol testing system, ALCONTROL Smart Connect. The self-operating breathalyser can be mounted onto a turnstile for controlled entry or onto a wall to be used as a self-test breathalyser prior to entry into a workplace.

“For industries where repeated positive alcohol testing impacts work performance, and can result in job losses, voluntary alcohol testing is an important safety measure,” explains ALCO-Safe MD Rhys Evans. “Voluntary alcohol testing is for employees who occasionally overindulge, giving them the opportunity to go home and avoid endangering themselves or their colleagues, should they experience a positive breath alcohol result.”

The new version is said to be easy to install and does not require a specialist technician to set up the device. It is designed for seamless integration between the breathalyser device, the biometric system and entry turnstile.

“By introducing Wiegand, RS485, LAN, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity and a new communication protocol, the device is easily compatible with any of the existing biometric employee identification and access control systems companies may already have in place,” asserts Evans, explaining that the addition of ‘Smart Connect’ to the ALCONTROL name emphasises a focus on easy connectivity and integration.

The unit includes an option for camera installation – for identity verification, as well as a RS-485 communication port, allowing the system to be integrated with facial recognition technology. The additional features enable companies to track positive alcohol test results, monitor absenteeism and abuse of the voluntary testing system, while streamlining human resources’ disciplinary processes related to alcohol and substances policies.

In addition to simplifying employee access control, ALCONTROL also facilitates visitor control and is said to be the only system currently capable of integrating with Bluetooth devices used to scan motor vehicle licence discs.

The calibration process is designed to be plug-and-play, enabling on-site replacement of pre-calibrated modules. This helps to reduce downtime, which is particularly important during peak  times when large volumes of people pass through turnstiles.

“With this new version release, we have successfully addressed a number of challenges experienced with the previous model launched in 2017, ensuring that the instrument is now easy to install, service and calibrate. A number of new features and connectivity updates mean that the testing system integrates easily with other workplace technologies, such as biometrics and access control systems, completely simplifying the enforcement of the company substance abuse policy and contributing to a safer, alcohol-free workplace,” concludes Evans.