The U.S. Fleet Forces Command (USFF) launched a beta test of the proposed Navy-wide breathalyzer program in Norfolk on May 23.

The program was outlined in the 21st Century Sailor and Marine initiative announced by Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus in March, as a way to increase alcohol education and awareness, as well as provide commanders with an additional tool to ensure the health and safety of Sailors. This was also shared in one of our previous posts.

USFF Fleet Master Chief Mike Stevens, who is working with the Breathalyzer Implementation Team on the beta test, shared: “This beta test will be used to identify, develop and make recommendations on specific processes, procedures, and policies to effectively implement the use of alcohol breathalyzers in the Navy… By obtaining feedback from the Fleet, we’re ensuring the final policy will be fully executable and will serve as a tool that benefits individual organizations and Sailors.”

Thirteen sea and shore commands have been selected to participate in the beta test, which runs from May 24 through September 30. Data from the test will be consolidated under a summary recommendation, and forwarded for the office of the Chief of Naval Operations for consideration prior to implementation.

The participating commands include: USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77); USS Kearsarge (LHD 3); USS Montpelier (SSN 765); USNS Apache (T-ATF-172); Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 2; Assault Craft Unit (ACU) 4; the staff of Commander, Submarine Forces Atlantic; Navy Expeditionary Intelligence Command, Explosive Ordnance Disposal Training and Evaluation Unit (EODTEU) 2; Navy Information Operations Command, Norfolk; Naval Computer and Telecommunications Area Master Station Atlantic; Navy Operational Support Center, Norfolk; and the USFF staff.