Cops open to THC device

Photo: Castanet Staff - File Photo

A device developed at UBC Okanagan which could detect levels of THC on a person's breath may have some interest within the RCMP.

While breathalyzers have been around for years to detect the blood-alcohol level of a motorist, such a device to detect the presence of THC is not widely available.

"The RCMP uses all the tools, technologies and legislation that is approved and available to deter, detect and stop individuals from driving under the influence of any intoxicant," the RCMP's national division told Castanet in an email requesting comment on the UBCO device.

"The RCMP does not currently use a breathalyzer to detect potential drug impairment, but would welcome any approved device that would help police officers detect, and remove, impaired drivers from our roads to help keep Canadians safer."

UBC Okanagan engineering professor Mina Hoorfar has developed a device that can detect, by the smell of your breath, the presence of THC.

With her device, Hoorfar says an officer can determine within seconds whether a person is impaired.

Alcohol impairment has an established blood alcohol content limit, however Canada does not currently have legal limits established for drugs.

RCMP say they will enforce those limits as written once they are established by legislators.

"While a large majority of impaired driving incidents reported by police to Statistics Canada are alcohol-related, approximately three per cent are reported to be drug-related. However, roadside surveys and research suggest that drug-impaired driving is under reported and is actually becoming as prevalent."