ANP Patterns with laughing gas and balloons
NOS Nieuws•vandaag, 18:13
Recreational use of nitrous oxide is measurable in breath and blood at least one hour after inhalation. Driving skills are affected for at least 45 minutes, according to research by the University of Maastricht in collaboration with TNO and the LUMC, commissioned by the police.
Until now, it was not known how long nitrous oxide remains detectable and what its influence is on driving skills. It has now been established that the behavioral effects do not completely disappear after the initial intense high. More research is needed to determine a limit value above which the influence on driving skills is too great.
Until now, there was no measuring method to detect laughing gas in breath, blood or saliva. This has now been achieved with infrared detection equipment. According to the researchers, it is “technically feasible” to use the technology in traffic for enforcement and investigation applications.
Suspected nitrous oxide use or possession in relation to traffic participation (figures: police)
Year Number of cases 2021 4938 2022 4586 2023 2153
The police commissioned research into the detection and effects of nitrous oxide, because recreational nitrous oxide use is believed to play a role in a significant number of traffic accidents resulting in fatalities or serious injuries. The police can currently only intervene in nitrous oxide use if, for example, cylinders or ampoules are found in the car.
Willem Woelders, drug portfolio holder at the police, is happy with the results of the investigation. “This research shows that you can demonstrate nitrous oxide in breathing air and blood and that the use of nitrous oxide in traffic affects driving skills. Something we have already seen in our daily police practice in many traffic accidents. This research also offers a starting point for a future investigation. to develop a measuring instrument.” The police hope to prevent the misuse of laughing gas in traffic.
2024-02-19 17:13:30
#Breakthrough #detection #laughing #gas #detected #blood #breath #hours