DRUG Testing Australia has written about the use of pupillometry to detect performance impairments from fatigue and chemical/substance abuse.
Pupillometry involves timing the response of the pupil as the eye is subjected to various lighting conditions. A pupillometer is used to flash a beam of light on the subject’s eyes, and their response time is recorded.
According to the company, the testing procedure is accurate for detecting impairments, but was previously not applied outside of the laboratory because of a lack of practical, portable and cost-effective equipment.
The EyeCheck technology from MCJ is said to overcome these problems. It is used like a pair of binoculars, held to the eyes during the test. When proper alignment is detected, the unit initiates a flash of light, causing the pupils to contract rapidly and then begin to dilate. The timing is measured and recorded, and the test is repeated another two times.
The company claims the testing method is non-invasive and gives reliable indications of impairments. While it can be used to detect fatigue on the roads, it can also be used to decrease the rate of impairment-related injury and safety risks.
EyeCheck has been implemented by CSR Sugar since 2004 to determine if workers are Fit for Duty. If the unit detects impairment, the worker is subject to conventional alcohol level detection and urine screening, detecting substance abuse and fatigue.
The company carried out over 1500 screenings during trials, and now screens 150 people per month.
According to CSR, it developed the process with all its stakeholders and believes the technique balances the privacy rights of individuals with legal occupational health and safety obligations.

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