Thailand has introduced new regulations that empower alcohol sellers to assess whether a customer is intoxicated, following the official publication of a Department of Disease Control notification in the Royal Gazette.
The announcement, made on March 28, establishes specific criteria and practical methods for identifying intoxication. These rules took effect the following day and were issued under the Alcoholic Beverage Control Act to provide standardised guidelines for businesses.
The primary objective of the regulation is to offer practical support to sellers, ensuring they have a clear basis for refusing service to individuals who appear excessively drunk, thereby maintaining public order.
Identifying intoxicated individuals through clear criteria
According to the new rules, a person is classified as intoxicated if they demonstrate visible impairment after consuming alcohol. This includes difficulty in maintaining balance, unsteady movements, or speech and behaviour that could pose a risk to themselves or the general public.
In addition to the smell of alcohol, authorities have listed several physical symptoms that sellers should look for:
- Bloodshot or twitching eyes
- Poor motor control, including staggering or visible tremors
- Slurred or incoherent speech
- Mood swings, aggression, or disruptive behaviour
- Harassment or any form of inappropriate conduct
- General confusion or a significantly reduced state of awareness
Three standardised physical tests introduced
The regulation outlines three specific methods for checking intoxication levels. Sellers are permitted to apply any one of the following tests to determine if a patron should be cut off:
Finger-to-nose test
The individual is required to close their eyes and attempt to touch the tip of their nose with a finger. If the person misses the target by more than one centimetre or exhibits clear tremors, they are deemed intoxicated.
Walk-and-turn test
This requires the individual to walk heel-to-toe in a straight line for 10 steps, turn around, and repeat the process. If the person displays at least two signs of impairment, such as stepping off the line, using their arms for balance, or stopping before the task is complete, they fail the assessment.
One-leg stand and counting test
The individual must stand on one leg, raising the other approximately 15 centimetres off the ground while counting for 30 seconds. Losing balance, putting the foot down early, or swaying significantly are considered signs of intoxication if two or more such instances are observed.
Authorities believe these measures will promote more responsible alcohol sales and reduce the likelihood of alcohol-related incidents in public spaces. By providing consistent criteria, the government aims to help sellers make informed decisions that prioritise public safety.
