Alcotest 6000 added to approved screening devices

Summary#

The government replaced the old Approved Screening Devices Order under the Criminal Code and added the Alcotest 6000 to the list of breath-testing devices police may use. The Order took effect on registration (April 17, 2024) and was published in the Canada Gazette on May 8, 2024.

What it does#

• Revokes the old Approved Screening Devices Order and replaces it with an updated version that reflects current Criminal Code provisions.
• Lists the devices now approved for detecting alcohol by breath. The approved devices are:
  • Alcolmeter S-L2
  • Alco‑Sûr
  • Alcotest® 7410 PA3
  • Alcotest® 7410 GLC
  • Alco‑Sensor IV DWF
  • Alco‑Sensor IV PWF
  • Intoxilyzer 400D
  • Alco‑Sensor FST
  • Dräger Alcotest 6810
  • Dräger Alcotest® 6820
  • Intoxilyzer 800
  • Alcotest 7000
  • Alcotest 6000 (newly approved)
• Confirms the Order comes into force on the day it was registered (April 17, 2024).

Who's affected#

• Police forces and provincial law enforcement agencies — they can buy and use the newly approved device (Alcotest 6000) if they choose.
• Manufacturers and suppliers of breath-testing devices — the list change may affect sales and procurement.
• People stopped for suspected impaired driving — roadside screening will use devices from this approved list.
• The federal government (through the Attorney General of Canada) and the advisory Alcohol Test Committee — they handled the approval and update.

Why it matters#

• Only devices on this approved list can be used by police for roadside alcohol screening under the Criminal Code. Adding the Alcotest 6000 means some agencies can start using that model for checks.
• The Order modernizes an older 1985 instrument so the law’s references and format match current drafting practice.
• There may be costs for agencies that decide to buy the Alcotest 6000 and train officers, but using an approved, tested device supports reliable and consistent breath screening across Canada.