World-First ‘Laughing Gas’ Breathalyser Trialled By Police
- Dominic Kureen
- 5 hours ago
- 2 min read
A new nitrous oxide breathalyser — believed to be the first of its kind in the world — is being trialled by police in Hampshire and the Thames Valley in an effort to tackle drug driving.
The device is being tested by officers to assess whether it can detect drivers under the influence of nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas or NOS.
If successful, it could help police prosecute motorists for drug driving offences.
Nitrous oxide is a Class C drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act and can lead to serious health effects including unconsciousness and neurological damage.
Police say driving under the influence of the drug is becoming an increasing concern, with officers having already dealt with fatal incidents linked to its use.
The portable device, developed by Respira Technologies following research at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, can provide results within minutes and is said to detect nitrous oxide use up to two hours after inhalation.
Acting Superintendent Emma Hart, from the Joint Operations Roads Policing Unit for Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary and Thames Valley Police, said:
"There is currently no device available that can prove a driver inhaled laughing gas, making prosecution difficult.
"That is why our forces are leading this testing phase, to break new ground and prove these devices can help save lives on our roads.
"As a team we are always looking for new ways to make our roads safer.
"Nitrous oxide is a growing issue, especially with young drivers who don't understand the harm it can cause."
The trial has been funded through the National Police Chiefs’ Council Science and Technology Strategy, with officers from both forces testing the device until 5th June.
Police and Crime Commissioner Donna Jones described the trial as "an important extra tool to combat dangerous drivers" and said road safety remains a priority.
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