An ignition interlock is an in-vehicle breath screening device. Before starting the car, the driver must blow into it and if it detects a BAC above a pre-set limit the car will not start. While the car is running, the driver must blow periodically into the device. If the BAC rises above the pre-set limit this will be recorded, and emergency lights and sounds will force the driver to switch off the ignition.
Used in several provinces, interlocks have proven effective in preventing drinking drivers from operating a vehicle. However, most continue to drink and drive after the device has been removed. A key challenge as the technology moves forward is to establish best practices with a view to long-term behaviour change.
For the past six years, the Traffic Injury Research Foundation (TIRF) has organized annual symposia to address the latest research and developments on interlock programs. Proceedings from the 2004 and 2005 symposia can be downloaded from TIRF’s Web site.
The Fifth International Symposium on Alcohol Ignition Interlock Programs (October 24 to 26, 2004) explored the latest developments in ignition interlock programs, service delivery, and legislative issues, focusing on the need to integrate rehabilitation with the interlock program.
The Sixth Annual Ignition Interlock Symposium (September 25 to 27, 2005 in Annecy, France) discussed the use of interlock programs internationally. Presenters from the European Community, Australia, Canada and the U.S. shared the experience and issues in those countries, and discussed the evolving technology.
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