Course Description

The Missouri Safety Center’s DHSS Type III Operator Training course is an 8-hour program for law enforcement officers involved in DWI enforcement. This course, divided into operator training and instrument labs, provides the expertise to conduct legally sound and reliable breath alcohol tests. The curriculum covers Type III permit responsibilities, Missouri DWI law, DWI report writing, and blood draw procedures. A key component is hands-on instrument labs for practical experience with Missouri-approved breathalyzers. Upon completion, officers will be proficient in breath alcohol testing for accurate DWI evidence collection.

Course Objectives and Outcomes

Type III Permit Holder Responsibilities

Prospective Type III operators in Missouri will gain a thorough understanding of the legal and regulatory framework governing their role. The training will define the scope of DHSS authority in alcohol and drug analysis and clearly outline the duties expected of a Type III Permittee. Essential permit regulations are covered, with a focus on the key statutes and rules that define DHSS authority and the operator’s role in alcohol and drug analysis related to breath, blood, saliva, and urine testing.

Missouri DWI Law and Enforcement

Officers will delve into Missouri DWI statutes and relevant case law to enhance enforcement effectiveness. The training explores the nuances of Implied Consent law and various statutes pertaining to impairment, alongside a detailed analysis of the legal significance of a 0.08 BAC. Participants will build a strong foundation in DWI law, learning key definitions, implied consent procedures, refusal protocols, and the evidentiary use of BAC in DWI cases.

Missouri DWI Report Writing

The course focuses on developing the skills necessary to construct compelling and effective DWI case reports. Students will learn essential steps for building a strong DWI case and differentiate between charging considerations based on specific Missouri statutes. A key focus is mastering the complete and accurate filling out of the Alcohol Influence Report (AIR), ensuring officers understand required paperwork and learn to avoid common reporting errors that can compromise a case.

Blood Draw Procedures in DWI Cases

Focused training will be provided on blood draw procedures, essential for specific DWI investigations. Participants will examine the advantages and disadvantages of utilizing blood samples compared to breath samples in DWI cases. The training details proper blood collection methods and clearly identifies personnel qualified to perform collections and analysis. Key areas include selecting appropriate collection tubes, understanding legal permissions for blood draws, and outlining the necessary steps for sample analysis to ensure evidentiary integrity.

Hands-On Breathalyzer Operation and Maintenance Labs

Practical, hands-on laboratory training is provided on Missouri DHSS approved breathalyzers, including the Intoxilyzer 8000, Alco-Sensor IV, Intox DMT, and EC/IR II. Participants will learn to identify instrument components and practice standard test operation, utilizing operational checklists correctly. The labs cover automated test sequences, understanding sample acceptance criteria, interpreting common status messages, and analyzing test printouts. Proficiency will be gained in conducting breath tests, performing routine operational checks, and developing a foundational understanding of instrument function and basic maintenance.

Other Information

This course is approved by Missouri P.O.S.T. and provides the following Continuing Education Hours:

• MO DHSS 4-hour Breath-Alcohol Training Course: 3 Technical hours and 1 Legal hour.
• MO DHSS 4-hour Breath-Alcohol Instrument Course: 4 Skill hours.

Tuition is waived for qualified Missouri Law Enforcement Officers through funding by MoDOT grants. Agencies are responsible for lodging and other expenses unless otherwise noted.