The two most common ways to monitor alcohol use outside a lab are continuous alcohol monitoring ankle bracelets, such as SCRAM, and smartphone-connected remote breathalyzers like the one used by Druchol. Both create objective records, but they work very differently and suit different situations.
How each option works
Continuous alcohol monitoring ankle bracelets
A transdermal ankle bracelet is worn around the clock and measures alcohol that passes through the skin in sweat, taking readings automatically at regular intervals. Because alcohol takes time to reach the skin, these devices show that drinking happened rather than the exact level of impairment at a given moment.
Remote breathalyzers
With a remote breathalyzer, the person blows into a portable device at scheduled, random or on-demand times. The result is measured in seconds and uploaded with a video of the test and its location, so the people monitoring can see who took the test, where and what the result was.
Side-by-side comparison
|
Ankle bracelet |
Remote breathalyzer |
| What it measures |
Alcohol in sweat through the skin |
Alcohol in breath, as an estimate of BAC |
| When it tests |
Automatically, around the clock |
At scheduled, random or on-demand times |
| Speed of results |
Delayed, since alcohol takes hours to reach the skin |
Within seconds of the test |
| Identity verification |
Device is fitted to the person and has tamper sensors |
Video recording and location of every test |
| Coverage |
Continuous |
Depends on how often and how randomly tests are scheduled |
| Daily life |
Worn at all times, can be visible and bulky, and must usually be installed and removed by a provider |
Small device kept with you and used only at test times |
| Cost |
Usually higher, often with installation and daily fees |
Usually lower, with a device purchase and a monthly subscription |
When an ankle bracelet may be the better fit
- A court or agency has ordered continuous, 24/7 monitoring.
- There is a high risk of harm if any drinking at all goes undetected.
- The person has a history of missing or avoiding scheduled tests.
When a remote breathalyzer makes more sense
- Sobriety needs to be confirmed at specific times, such as before and during parenting time.
- Results are needed quickly so that someone can act on them the same day.
- The person wants a discreet option that doesn't affect work, sports or clothing.
- Monitoring supports recovery, return to work or personal goals, where cost and comfort matter for staying with it over many months.
Questions to ask before you choose
- Does a court order, agreement or employer policy require a specific type of monitoring?
- Which times of day matter most, and how many tests per day are needed to cover them?
- Who needs to receive results and alerts, and how quickly?
- How will missed or positive tests be handled?
- How can lawyers, courts or other professionals verify the reports?
If a court order names a particular monitoring method, follow the order and speak with your lawyer before making any change. This article is general information and not legal advice.
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