Police forces in southern England are trialling what is believed to be the world’s first nitrous oxide breathalyser, as UK authorities continue to crack down on illegal activities following the 2023 ban on retail sales and possession of the gas.
The device, developed by US-based Respira Technologies following research at the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, can reportedly detect nitrous oxide use up to two hours after inhalation. Drivers breathe into the device before results are produced within minutes.
Police forces across Hampshire, the Isle of Wight and Thames Valley are participating in the trial. Authorities say there is currently no approved roadside device capable of proving a driver has inhaled nitrous oxide, making prosecutions difficult.
“That is why our forces are leading this testing phase, to break new ground and provide these devices that can help save lives on our roads,” said Acting Superintendent Emma Hart.
“Nitrous oxide is a growing issue, especially with young drivers who don’t understand the harm it can cause.”
The trial comes as prosecutions linked to nitrous oxide possession continue to rise following the UK-wide introduced in 2023, which led to the gas’ classification as a Class C drug.
In February 2024, the UK recorded its first conviction under the legislation after a man was jailed for four months for possession with intent to supply.
The nitrous-oxide detecting device, developed by Respira Technologies, can detect the presence of nitrous oxide up to two hours after ingestion ©Respira
Speaking at the British Compressed Gases Association (BCGA) conference today, David Hurren, independent consultant and BCGA Board Member, said the association had played a key role in discussions surrounding the legislation.
Although the outcome was “not fully the legislation we wanted”, Hurren said the BCGA had ensured the rules did not adversely affect its members or legitimate industrial users, such as in the medical space.
He also pointed to the Netherlands, where similar restrictions contributed to shortages of nitrous oxide for medical use
“There is a lot happening behind the scenes,” said Hurren, adding that the UK government is becoming “more involved” in the issue.
Police and Crime Commissioner Matthew Barber said the new breathalyser technology could help prevent further road deaths linked to nitrous oxide misuse.
In 2024, a 19-year old driver was jailed for over nine years after causing a high-speed crash that killed three of his teenage friends while he was inhaling nitrous oxide from a balloon behind the wheel.
“Too many lives have already been lost due to reckless decisions behind the wheel, and this technology has the potential to help prevent further tragedies,” he said.
The European Commission announced an EU-wide ban on the sale of large nitrous oxide cylinders to private individuals, taking effect from 1 February 2027.
There has also been a wider effort to stop the sale of nitrous oxide in the US. Earlier this week, the Los Angeles City Council called for the city attorney to enforce a ban, with exemptions for medical, food service, automotive, and industrial uses.
