What is the SCRAM CAM Bracelet and How Does It Work?

SCRAM Continuous Alcohol Monitoring® (SCRAM CAM®) is the most widely used transdermal alcohol monitoring bracelet in the corrections industry. Every 30 minutes, 24/7, the SCRAM CAM bracelet tests the wearer’s sweat for alcohol, but how exactly does it work?

The Science of Transdermal Alcohol Testing

A few common ways to detect the presence of alcohol in a person’s system is through their blood or breath, but alcohol is also secreted—and can be detected—through the skin.

While 95% of alcohol is metabolized by the liver, 4% is expelled through the lungs and kidneys, and the remaining 1% is eliminated through the skin via sweat. If you have ever noticed the aroma coming off a person that drank alcohol the night before, then you have an idea of how transdermal, or “through the skin”, testing works.

Using the science of transdermal testing, the SCRAM CAM bracelet tests samples the wearer’s sweat and tests for alcohol every 30 minutes around the clock and is even able to distinguish ingested alcohol from environmental alcohol sources (such as lotions or perfumes that contain alcohol).

Watch the video below to dive deeper into the science of transdermal testing.

SCRAM CAM Supports Client Sobriety and Accountability

Unlike scheduled or even random blood and breath tests, SCRAM CAM’s automated testing works continuously, day and night, which means clients can’t drink around testing schedules. And with 99.3% of clients sober and compliant each day, SCRAM CAM supports client sobriety while keeping them accountable for their actions.

In Caddo Parish, Louisiana, for example, SCRAM CAM enables clients to address their alcohol abuse issues and ensures they follow the conditions of the diversion program, ultimately putting them on the path to a better future.

“If it weren’t for SCRAM CAM, I’d be in jail or still drinking. It has helped keep me sober for almost a year. Life saver!”

– SCRAM CAM Participant

See more inspiring client testimonials here.