Office of the Director

Since ils 1932 inception, the FBI Laboratory has consistently strived toenhance its
SoeI'V1Q> to the law enfon:ement and criminal justice communities. 1he H;mdhook of
&mlsjc S<icuct ind~ informabon to darify the G1pabililies of the FBI Laboratory, as
....ell as current teduUques used to examia.> physical evW:lence.

1lU"oogh exhaustive analysis, our technidans develop appropriate methodology

10 apply the most recent scientific and technological ilmovations to the examination of
forensic evidroce in criminal investigations. The reliability of these techniques is crucial,
1'01 only to the law enforcement profession, but also to the public we serve. lhe men and
W<)mCn who rotI~ phy3i<al evidetu.- dt mil"! 5CeneS must exerase prudent cart' in its

handling and. packaging in order 10 preserve its integrity. By doingso, they help to ensure
thai the resultsoi laboratory examinations are accurate. Suggested guidelines and proce-
dures are included in this manual.

The 17m distributes the HaOOhggk of f'Ownsic Sdcocc in lis continuing effOt"Is to
assist crime invt'Stigators and l.tOOratones throughout the v.oorld.1 hope that this publica-
tion will promote optimum use of forensic evidence and crime laboratories. These art'
essential OOITIJXlI lei ,Is in fadlitatillg the successful resolution 01 the high numtx>r 01 inves-
tigationsand prosecu!KlnS which O\'ffWhelm theaiminal justice system and. lax our
re5Ollt'CeS at aU levels of govenunenl.

iii
 I

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1bt FBI1..J.bontory is 10ClI1(d in tM J. Edgar Hoov« FBI Building.

10th ;lInd Pennsylnni. Avf'll~, Northw~,W;p.shington, D.C. 20535

v
VISION STATEMENT OF
THE FBI LABORATORY

@'f.eFBILaboratorywill be foremost in the delivery of forensk

examinations and other services to LAW ENFORCEMENT through:

~ A total commitment to quality

~ Technicalleadership

~ Prompt, accurate, and thorough response

to all requests

~ Innovative uses of technology to facilltate

INVESl1GA110NS

~ Sharing information and technology

with tlie CRIMINAL jUSl1CE COMMUNITY

~ A work environment which fosters open

communication, creativity individual
initiative, and personal achievement
 Table of Contents

lntroductory Remarks .....M•••M".M.._ ••M•..M.••M••_"_"_"_"_"'_"_"_'"M"'_"_"'_"'_"'_"M ill

VIsionStlltementcithe FBIl.lboratory ._M._.•.__._ _M••.M._.••_ __.__.__ _•._ _ _ _ vi.
General Wonnation , _ " _ _ viii· bl:

~ety;llnd TheCrime ~ne 2

Ba.sic5afetyGuidelJnes _ _ _......................................................... 3
1heCrimeScene.... ~ .._ .._ .._ _ _.._ .._ .._ _ _..._..._ .._ .._ ..._..._... M ••• _ •• _14 ......._ .

FBI ~ic and Technicil Support Servkes_'_"_'_"'_'_"_"_"__ 'M_'__ ' _ _'_' 20

IJocu1ner'It Sevices .._ .. _ .._._.._ .. _ .. M......._.. _...M..•M..._.._.•_.._..•_.._.. .._.. 21
ComputR Analysisand ResponseTeam(CAR1).M_._ M _.._.._.._... 22
Unguistics ExanVroIions .._ M M _ M M _ _.._ M _ _ _.._ .._. 22
Questioned Documents _ _ _........... 23
sroe Print ;lind Tire Tread Examinations 29
Racketeering Rerords Analyses 33

Latent fingelprint 5ervicI:'s _ _ .._ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _... 3S

fQrensicScience Researdt and Training Center (P3Rlq _ .._ .. .._ .._ .._... 41

Scientific Analysis 5eJvices _.._._._.._.._.._.._.._.._.._.._ _ _.._.._.._..._.._ 4J

aeruCill1· TOJdcolog:ical EJcarrUna.tions _.._.._ _ _ _ _....._..._.__._.... 44
DNAAnalysis/Seroiogy Examir.a.tions , , ~,....................... ~
Explosives(Examinations,Guidelines,etc.) " , , , ,........... 53
firearms-TooimarksExamirultions " " , 57
HairsandFibersExaminations " ,....................................... 65
MaterialsAnalyses._ ~ ..M ~ M M M M................. 67
SpedaI Projects5e:rviee5_. .._ .._._._.._ .._ .._ .._ .._ .._ .._ ..._ .._ .._ .. .._ .._ 76
Gnphk,.Photographic,Structural, and VideoServices . 71

TectvUotl Services._._.._.._._..._._.. M .._ .._ ......_ _.._ . _.._._ _ . _.._ . _ _ .._ _._.._ 79
Audio/VJdeoand fJectronic Devices _ _ _ _ _ _ _.. 80
TheNational Center foe the Analysisci VJOI.enl Crime 82
BombDataCenter 84

PadQng andShippingEvidence _"_'_'_"_"_" "__ M'''_''' 91

''_'''M'''_'''_''_'_'_'
CdlectiorI,. Shiprrent.ldentification,. and PacOging Owts _M __ " _ " _ " _ " _ " _ " _ " _ ' _ 98
1nde:lI.__ .M._._.M._.__ ._.~._.M._.~._....._.__. ._._._._. .__._._._._.__._._ 116
Ptm6cation Rights

< vII

General Infonnation
Definitions of Evi~
That whichis legally subtnitred to a com-
petent tribunal as a means of ascertaining
the ttuthof iIrly alleged matter of fact
under inveStigation.
Anything II suspect has taken tran.1~ at,
01" that may be otherwise (IlfU'll!(ied with
the crime scene 01" the aime itself.
T'I'nninoLogy
Laboratory,latent. physical,and tang1ble,
are all adjectives that describe ~ types of
evidence TKeived lit the FBI to be exam-
ined by our experts.
Laboratory evidence is subjected to scien-
tifie letting.
Latent evidence, usually hidden (undeva-
oped), is evidence that becomeS visible by
means of the kual!iic~.
Physical evidence (rormally inanimate)
rtUly be measured to determine its quantity
or quality.
Tangible evideo::e can be touched and/or
<!<final.
P'urpOS'I' of Physial Evldwee
PhysiCilI evidence am in the solution of
the: case by:
• Connecting 01" elimirulting suspects
• Developing or identifying suspects
• Developing 01" sNJwiflg 1I similar
method of open.tion
• Identifying loot or contraband
• Proving or: disproving an alibi
'-"""
I--:C-~
viii>
Physical Evidence Proves;m Element Of
Theory of an Offense, for example:
• Bullets, residue at the scene of a fire,
toolnw'ks, blood, semen. or stomach contents
may all prove elements of certain offenses;
• Footprints ENly show that aany WeI'e lit the
scene. aNJ/or iIIUiO pilint on clothing may slow
that a person was hit by a ear instelld of other-
wise injured;
• Safe insulation, gJass,Ofbui1ding materials
on a suspect's clothing may prove entry;
• SUe insubtionon tools may be sufficient to
prove violation 01 statutes for possession of
burglary tools.
NlI~ of Physical Evidence
Physical evidence falls into two classifICations:
• EvideM! with Individual Identifying Owae--
teristicsand
• Eviden:l! withC1ll5ls ~ only.
Evidenre with irdividual identifying character-
istics can be pasitively identified as oomlng
from 1I specific souroe or person if sufficient
kientifying charac'eristics are Pi em. Foe ex-
lIlnple: bullets, finger/sroe prints, handwrit-
ing. toolmarks, and pieces of glass wwe the
broken edgeS can be ENlkNd.. and wood
where broken/cut swfaoes can be matdled.
Evidence with c1w characteristics only, M
mattel" row ttuoughly examined,. cannot be
placed into arott-er das:s. A definite identifi-
cation becomes imp06Sibie when more than
one SO\1lCli! is found insampl.es, or when lIlicro--
sropie/lICddenta1 markings are insufficient for
=~~:~:;:=;in~~~r,
_..
glas& fragments too small to match broken
ed~, and tooImarks, fir@er/sroeprints.or
The value of evidence with Class Cl\aracter-
istics only should not be minimized. In
cases involving evidence with Class Char-
acteristics, be alert for the following:
• Preponde£i1l'lce of such evidence;
• Evidence such as paint with several
matching layers, or soil with foreign matter
such as paint chips, odd seeds, and safe in-
sulation;
• Elimination evidence, such as soil speci-
mens fran where a suspectclai:ns he/she
was; where te/she claims a car was; or
paint or other materials from a source
mentioned in an alibi.
Standard Reference Files and Collec-
'OM
The FBI Laboratory maintains these c0llec-
tions so thai evidence may bemmpared 10
the following standnd files;
Adhesives
Ammunition
O1eclcwriter Standards
Duct Tape/Electrical Tape
Explosives and Related Items
~ Rifling Charactl'ristics
Hairs and Fibers
National Aulolluve Image File
National Automotive Paint File (Fonoign
aM. Domestic)
Naticwlal Motor Vehicle Certificate ofTrtIe
National Motor Vehicle Altered NuntJers
".
National Vehicle IdentificationNurnbers
(VIN)File
Office Equipment Standards (typewriters,
copiers, printers, etc.)
Reference Firearms Col!ection
Safe Insulation
Wety Paper Standards
Shoe Sole Design Standards
TIre Tread DesignStandards
Watennark Standards
Files of Questioned Material include:
All forensic services, including the services
of laboratory examiners if rEeded as expert
witnesses, are rendered free of cost to
contributing agencies.
As a general m1e, the F8J will not oondutt
forensic examinations if the evidence is
subjected elsewhereto the same examination
for the Pto5ecution. However, if the drcwn-
stances in a given instance are such that this
restriction poses a signi6cant obstacle to an
orderly prosecution- these f"ets srould be set
forth in a request for waiver. Such requests
will be evalu.ated on a case-by-ease basis.
To utilize more efficiently its resources, the
Laboratory Division will not Krept cases
fran other crime laboratories which have
the capability of conducting the requested
examination(s). U submitted, the evidence
will be returned W'DJX'Iled Md unexamined.
However, mitigating circumstances may
warrant anex~ption to this p:>Iicy, such as
fingerprint examinations.
In certain situations,. fingerprint evidence will
be examined even if it issubjeded Ioexam.i-
nation by other fil:1gaptintapeifS,. FBI
experts will furnish testimony regarding
evidence they have examined. But. in the
interest of economy, their testimony sMuJd
not be requested if another Prosecution
expert is already testifying to the same re-
sults.
Facilities are available to all fedetal agencies,
Us. AtlOllleYS' and military tribwlaIs in both
civil and aiminaI matters, and all duly
ronstituted state, (WIlty, and municipal u.w
enforcement a~ in the United States in
l.'XInr«tion with their official aiminal investi-
gative matters only. < ill:
RADIOLARIA (t.bgnified 20.79 microns) Marine planktonic proto-
'tOoln recovered from evidence to determine environmental history

\
Safety
and the
Crime Scene

Basic Safety Guidelines for
Crime Scene Investigation
and Evidence Collection
Laboratory~,photographm,
evidence res~ tellI\ members,evi-
dence tedmiciar6, fingerprint specialists,
and others are often called upon to c0n-
duct aime scene searches and to identify
bodies in mass disasters. Because 01 ltv
inherent mk of oofO!iW'e to human bklod
itndother potentially infectious marerials,
as well as the varW;>us physical hazards
present al the crime scene, the health and
safety 01 these individuals may be c0m-
promised. For protection.. it is essentW
wt they develop and maintain an acute
awareness of the hazards present in their
WOfkenvironment and tUe the ~
preautions and measures to prorect
themselves and their coworkers.
The purpose of this section is to identify
general safety guidelines and personal
protective lJWasures that should be fo!.
lowed when handling potentially hazard-
ousevidentiary materials or whenex-
posed to hazardous environmental
cooditions- These recommendations ~
not all inclusive and should serve only as
a guide and/or .supplement for personal
training and growth in safety awareness.
The bask safety guidelines for aime
sceI'lI:! investigation and evidence oollec·
~;u¥ intended to serve only as a start-
ing point for good safety practices. Per-
sonnel involved in crime scene investiga-
tions and evkience collection ;md han-
dling should oonsult pertinenllocaL state,
and fedeallaws COClCeming specific
safety requirements and standards:
1
Routes of Exposure
Inhabdon
lnhalalioll is the most likely route of entry lOr
chemicals as well a9 some itIfectious agents
(e.g., tuberculos.i5). O1emkal orbiological
contaminants present in inhaled air can uSly
enter the II.tIlg5 and bloodstream where they
can circulate throughout the system causing
damage to target orgiUlS, such as the liver ard
kidrq.lnhaled substances can be in the form
of dusts. ~1s(..ej(:8Jb). smoke. vapors. pses.
or fumes. PIOper work practices, engireering
controls (e.g., ventilation) and, when necessary,
the use oi respirators minin\i7,e inhalation of
air contaminlnts.
Ingestion
Ingestion is a less common route oi exposure
kJr both chemical and biological oontaminants.
Ingestionoi a corrosive material can cause
damage to the mouth, throat, and digestive
tract. When swallowed. !:oxic chemicals may be
absorbed by the bOOy through the stomach
and intestines. To prevent entry of toxic chemi-
cals or bkllogical. hazards into the mouth,
always wash your haJ1ds before eating. smok-
ing. or applying m&metia. Also, avoid bring-
ing food, drink, and dgarettes into areas wh?re
rontamin.!ation can occur.
Skin,. Eye, and Mucous Mftl'Ibrane Contact
CotItact of chemicals or infectious materials
with the sldn..eyer.,or mucous membrarvl:s isa
frequent route oJ. entry. QlemiCAi contact with
thoseswiaces coukI. result in local damage and
subsequent absotption into the bloodstream,
thereby causing other effects throug.hou.t the
body. The dkd: of eye COI'\lilct with a dlemical
can range &un irritation to permanent blind-
ness. o.-mical exposure can be avoided by
use of aPfll'OPriate protective equipment such
as gloves, safety gimes, goggltS, and/or face
shields. < 3
Injection
Injection of foreign materials (chemical or
biological) can cause a serious health hazard
because the material can be delivered directly
to the bloodstn>am or beoome embedded in
the tissue. Exposure to toxic chemicals, hu-
man blood or other potentially infectious
materials can inadvertently occur through
mechanical injury from contaminated glass,
metal, needles/syringes, or other objects.
Therefore, extreme caution should be exer-
cised when handling these or similar objects.
Broken glass which may be contaminated
should never be picked up directly with the
hands. It sOOuld be collected using me-
chanical means, such as a brnsh and dust
pan, tongs, or forceps.
Ensure that the crime scene/mass disaster
is properly ventilated.
Mirrors and flashlights should be used
when looking in confined spaces such as
under car seats, beds, etc., prior to reaching
into those areas with the hands.

Crime SceneIMass Disaster 2, 3 Use a wooden paint stirrer, or other similar

item, to search narrow and confined spaces,
General Preaulions such as those found between car seats and
chairs, before the hands are used.
No one should enter the crime scene/mass
Never recap hypodermic needles or place
disaster without the proper safety and per-
covers, such as pencil erasers, on the end
sonal protective equipment. (See Personal
of the needles.
Protective Equipment, page 11.)
Place alI syringes, needles, andother sharp
Irdividuals should n:rt be permitted to eat,
objects in puncture-resistant containers.
drink, smoke, or apply makeup at the crime
scene/mass disaster.
Refer to Bloodbome Patllogen-ehemical
Safety, page 9, for specific safety prace-
The crime scene/mass disaster may be a
d~.
source of contamination from a variety of
sources including human blood and body
Access Control
fluids (both liquid and dried), human tissues
and other remains.
Provide a means of controlled entry and
exit for persormel and equipment entering
Treat all human body fluids as potentially
or leaving the crime scene/mass disaster.
infectious and use Universal Precautions
under Bloodborre Pathogen Safety, page 7.
Provide a system for centralized decon-
In addition to the biological hazards, consid-
tamination of personnel and equipment
and the collection of infectious waste
eration must be given to the variety of chem-
(gloves, coveralls, etc.) to prevent transfer of
ical, environmental, and/or mechanical haz-
ards that may be present at the crime ~/ potentially infectious material to nonoonta-
minated areas such as the worker's office,
mass disaster.
car, or residence.
Always be on the alert for sharp objects such
Procedures should be established for the

~
as hypodennic needles, knives, razors, broken
proper disposal of all contaminated waste.
s, nails, and exposed or cut metals.
•
VtolVit Crimes
VIOlent aimes pose a gruler PJtentiaI for
O)I'Itact with infectious INlterial..
All human bkxxL body fluids, and tissues,
from both 6ving and dea:ased individuals,
must be handled u being potEntial1y Wee-
tious for hepalitis and HIV (human immu-
l'lOdcliciency virus).
Avoid direct oontactwith al.l human blood,
body fluids, and tissues. persooaJ. protective
equipment must be readily available and
used. (See Universal Precautions ww:ler
BIoodbome Paltogell Safety, page 7.)
Surgical caps, fluid-resistant pwtective
dothing. face masks/shields, eye pn:*,,:tion.
shoe COYeIti and boots sMuId be worn in
instances wren gross contamination can be
reasonably anticipated (e.g., autopliies,
c:rime scenes, mas5 disasters).
Bombl~
If a bombing incident OC'CWS, investigative
~ should ensure duot the following
......
J'ftQutions are taken before en1ering the
• EN~that aD utilities (e1ecbk.gas, and
Wlller) are IumIld off. Contact local utilities
or poo.ver rompany for assistanI:\>.
• A bomb technician should first check the
damaged area for unelq'loded bomb(s).
• The structure should then be checked by
engineers lor hazardous structurcll condi·
""""
.00 l"(lt touch a: move tIDy suspected ex-
pkl6ive device at the aime scene until it has
been rendered safe by a public5ilfety bomb
squad « military ExpIol;ive Ordnance
DisJXli3l Unil
• Initiill entry personnel should carry at
IeasI one radiation exheuuty rnooi!Dring
alarming dosirnetel"/rarenleter in order to
identify any pote:tdial radiation hazard.
• Use proper personal p'oteeliveequip-
menl such u hard hals, safety goggles,
glove>, l'ouI weatherdothing. waterproof/
puncture-resistant roveralls, steel-roe/steel-
shank workboot, respirator, reflective tape
for clothing. and any other prorect:i.ve item.
(See Personal Protective Equipment,
page 11.)
All bontling or explosi~tedevid~
which 0XISi.sts of substarces oi W\kmwn
composit:ion. such as powders a: 1iqWds,
must be assumed to bto extre'll .ely sensitive
and capableoi initiation or detenation.
Unknown substarees in these matters
should be examined by a bomb technician
or a forensic chemist before collection.
Prior to packaging for shipment, call the
FBI Laboratory, Explosives Unit at
(202) 324-2696 to ascertain the quantity
!lee jed for analysis, the pacbging metIo;I.
to be used. and the pt...,...et shipping
method. Also, a.ll for qu.estions regarding
handling oi these types 01. d>stanc:es.
AU unknownsubslanoes should be 1abeIed;
Usenuti0n when haodlloio Substance
is Possibly flammable or cxgJosive,
AU evidence col1eewd at the aime scene
whichtwbeen ~ by a fon:!n£c
spedaIist (bomb 1I:d1nician« chemist) aId
fourd 10 be safe iUd ronhaz.ardous srouJd
be dearly Illbeled as such. The label should
be dearly visible and indude the name,
agency, and phlne numbeI' 01 the l'otensic
expert who examined the maierial and
made thederermination that it w~~
,
Oandutine Drug Laborawriu
Qandestinedmglaborateries may PJESCid
extmne!y dangerous situaticns ID Wl-
trained personnel Ihse laboratories often
contain extremely dangerous chemicals,
wNd\nuy be intentionally mislabe1l"d, ilS
well as "'booby trapped," 10 prevent entry.
They should only be ~ut:hed, cleared, and
decontaminared by the Drug Fnforcemenl
Ad.rninis.tration (DEA) perscnnel whoare
lrilined and ~ fur this type of work.
When dealing with clandestine drug labo-
ratories, evacuate the scene, secure the area,
lind contact the nearest office of the DEA.
Remov,] of HuardouJ Ma~rial5 from
the Crime ScentlMass Disaster
AlJ hazardous materials should be properly
labeled,..stating tho type of hazard and. any
sped;!! hardling pi\Xl"dures before being
removed from the crime sc:erll"/mass
disaster.
AU haurdous mallrial ~Is should be
dearly visible and. include theagency,
~, and phone nwnber of the forensic
expert who examined the material.
TItle 49 of the Code ofFeda-al Regulations
lists specific requin!ments that must be
oOserved in prl?paring hazardous materials
for shipment by air, highway, rail, wa!t'r, or
any combination thereof.
TItle 49 of the Code d FEderal Regulations,
p.tr11n.101, provides a Hazardoo5 Materi-
als Table which identifies those items ccn-
sidet'ed hazarOO.Is for the purpose d tnn:r
portation. spedal provisions, haurdous
materials a:mmunications, emergency res-
ponse information,. and training require-
monO.
, .>
Exposure to Critia! (Traumatld
Inddtllts 4
Shootings, drowningJ, accidents, sexu.aI. as-
sault. and. dUld abuse an> only • few examples
of critical (traumatic) inddents that law en-
fOitmle'l'\t persanel areexposed to whidl.
mayproducesigni&ant~'espc.%.
'These rt'SptJI&S may indude Any ol the
1oIIowin8'
AllX:lhJl/substance abuse
Ang~
""""ly
Cryingldepression
Fatigue
Flashbacks and intrusive thoughts
Guilt
Heightened sense of danger
Isolation/withdrawal
Marital probIem5
N;"""""'"
N""""""
Pel(xptDl.S of going insane
Startie reactions (e.g., difficulty
sleeping. headadles, mU$cll!
aches, stomachaches, high blood
pressure,etc)
Trouble remembering/con-
centrating
For additional informationor assistance con-
cerning critical (traumatic) incidents, contact:
lbt International CritiaI Inddent Stress
Foundation. Baltimore, Ma.tyland, (410) 730-
4311.lf e ~ assistance is needed,ccn-
tact the 24-hour: Critic.allnddent Stress
Debriefing (aSD) Hotline, (410) 31J.-U73.
S.fely
Bloodbome Pzthoge:n Wtty 5
On [)e(e.mer6, 1991, hCJccupational
Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
issued h regulation called "Occupational
Exposun! to B100dborne Pathogens (BBp),"
round in TItk! 29,Sectioo 1910.1030of the
Code oi Federal Ri!gulations. The standard
c;uvers those oa:upalians having a high
potentlalfor exposure to bloodbome pi-tho-
_.
gens, 1nclu~ law enforcement. t>mi!!""
gene)' respoose, and crime laboratory
Individuals covered by this standard
should observe Unive~ Prfl:aUOOI15 to
preventCQl"ltld with human blood, lxxly
Auids, tissues and other potentially infec-
tious materials.
Univmlal PrKautions require that employ-
ees treat ~l human blood, lxxly fluids, or
other potcrItiallyinfectious materials to be
infl:'ctious lor hepatiti.\ B virus (HBV),
human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and
other blooc!borre pattoogt'lts. Appropriate
prota;'tiw fJlI!llS\1Ct!S to be taken to avoid
direct oontaa with these materials include:
• Use barrier pto,.,.;tion at all times..
• Prohibit ea~ drinking,.. smoIdng, or
applying makeup at the crime $Oene/mass
disnter.
• Use gloves when there may be hand con-
tact with blood or other potentially Infec-
tious materials. Gloves sh::m1d always be
worn as if there are cuts, SCI"Cltd"t's, or other
brw.ks in the skill In scxne instances where
there is heavily contarnir1il~ material, the
use of double g.k:wes is advisilble k.II' addi-
tional ptot«tion.
• Change gloves when oontamitIated or as
5OOJ\ as feasibM! if tom,. punctured. or when
their ability to furv:fun as • barrier Is a)I'no
"""""",.
• AlWJY$ wash Mnds after removal of
gloves or other personal potective equip-
ment (PFE). The remov~ of gloves and
other PPE should be performed in a manner
which will not result in the CQI"ltaminatioo of
W'lprote\.1ed Uin (K" dothing.
• Wear safety goggles,. pot:ec:tive face masks •
or sh:elds.,or glt : with5ide shields 10 pro-
tect from splashes, sprays,. ~tten, Of droplets
oi bkIod or other potentially iIlfecticu5 materi-
als. These sarN! ~utionsmust be taken
when colIeding dried stains for laboratory
""'-
• Use disposable items, rruch as glovi!s, rover-
alls, shoe covers, etc., when potentially Infec-
tious materials are present.
• Place contaminated sharps (e.g., broken
glass, needles, knives, etc.,) in appropriate
leakproof, do6akYe, ponctu.re-mistant CClr'l-
tainers when tN5e sharp are 10 be discarded,
lranspoi ted, or shipped. U transported or
shipped. c:onlainers sOOuId be apptoptbte/y
"bol<d
• Do not bend,recap, remove, or otherwise
handle contaminated needles or other sharps.
• Use. p.toteelive device, such as /I. CPR
mask. w~ performing mouttHo-mouth
resuscitation.
• Decontaminate;ill equipment after uc;e with
a solutionoftvJusehold bleach (diluted 1:10),
7O'ro isopropyl akohol.. orothcr appropriate
disinfectants.
• After all evidera has been coUecred Clnd the
crime scene has been released, the owner or
occupants of the affe<md property should be
mlIde aware of the potential. risks from blood-
borne pathogens.
• Evidence axuainirIg bkxld or other body
fluids should be axnp}etely dried before it is
pacbged and shipped to the laboratory for
analysis. Apptoptiate biohazard warning
labels must be affixed 10 the ev\.detIc2 c0n-
tainer indiCilMg thIlt CI potentially Infectious
material may be present. 7
 • To avoid direct conlilct aocl exposure to
potentiaUy infectious evidentiary matl'Tia!s
in the courtroom. aU evideroc\' contaminated
WIth human blood orotlv.'r potentiaUy inf{'('-
boos materials should be p1ared in a sealed
transparent paw&\, and labeled WIth the
appropriate biohaz.ard warning label
Addition,lII Preautions
In addil10ll to Universal Precautions, there
are certain requirements in theOStlA BBP
standard that pertain to collection. handling,
storage, transport, and shipping ofbloOO
and other potentially infectiolls matl"rial.
Evidence specimens contamin.1ll'd with wet
blood Of other potentially infectious materials
must be placed in a clo6able, ~1kproof con-
tainer (I.e., heavy-duty plastic bag) when
transported from the crime S<:'Cfle to the dry-
ing location. After drying, the evideoce must
be placed in a suitable .loci properly labeled
container bl'fOIe being transported to the
mme laboratory. (Note'; Pbstic bags used to
transport evidence contaminated with wet
blood or otlv.'r nuids should be retained as
evidl"roc\'.)
OSIIA's
BBP
standard
29CFR
1910.1030
(g)(1)(i),
reqw~
that evi-
"'~
speomens,
such;iS liquid blood (VotCUl.ainel" tubes) or
other potentially infectious materials, must be
placed in a dosable, leakproof C'OIltainel" and
labeled (see above)or coIor-axIed prior to
tx-ing stored or transf'Ol ted.
EngiJle('ring and \\-ork practice controls are
used toelimin.1te Of minimize employee ex-
8 "> posure to hazaroOl.lS materials.
Engineering controls (e.g., puncture-resistant
containers for contanun..1ted Sho1l'PS, paint
stirrers, aocl adjustable mirrors for locating
evidence in oonfined/hiclden spaces) isolate
or relTlO\'C the hazard, whether bloodbome
or chemICal, from the workplace. Workplace
controU. (e.g., hanc1washillg facilities. wear-
mg persOllal protl!cti\'e eqUIpment) reduce
the likelihood d exposure by altering thl'
manner in whim a task is jX'rfonned.
t:o.- additional information on proper pr0-
tection against blood and other potentiaUy
infe<tious matl'Tials, ref~r to "!'ersonal Pr0-
tective Equipm"nt," p.1ge 11.
Decontamination of
Nondisposable Oothing
These rerommendOltions apply only to non-
di.spo6ilble clothing and not to clothing that
is part 01 the per.;onal protccti\"eequipment
~to05lIA29CFR1910.1030.
• Protect hands with disposilble gloves.
• ReITlO\'e contaminated garment carefully;
protect skin and mucos.,1 surfaces during
/'('movat, e.g., OO\'er face and eyes with mask
arid goggles or face shield wt-cn removing
garment over head.
• Fill a sink, bucket, or dC('p tray with cold
water and soak cont;unin.1ted part of gar-
ment to remo\"e blood orothcr material.
Using gloves, squce7..eoot water from g.Jr-
ment; disposed water into sewer, toilet, or
dirty sink; rinse sink aocl COfItail"lel" ....oith plen-
ty of water; disinfect contalr"lCr If oceded.
• Store garment in plastic bag prior to being
""""""'.
-OR·
• Place garment into tray and co\'er conta-
minated area with oneal the following
disinfectants:
 • 1:10 dilution of fresh chlorine bleach
for fabrics that tolerate b1eiiChing
such as white coats or uniforms;
" 70% alcohol (ethanolor isopropanol)
for delicate fabrics.
"let soak for 10 minutes, remove, rinse with
water, and dty. The disinfected garment can
be laundered or dry cleaned.
Otvnical ~d)' 1, 6
Dependirog on the type of material enroun-
tered. a vilriety of Malth or safety hazards
may exist Some of those haurds aw identi-
fied by the following categories:
AilJJl.mabl~ or rombustibl~ mal:el:ials (e.g.,
gasolin!, acetone, ether) ignite easily when
exposed to both air and an ignition SOUI'Ce
sum. as a spark or flame.
Explosiv~ Illllterials (e.g., dynamite, C-4,
lNT, etc.) are chemically unstable, Instability
determines the sensitivity (i.e., the amountoi
energy required to initiate a reaction). Explo-
sives OOfItaining nitroglycerine require a mini-
mal amountof shock to be initiated. Heal,
friction. and fireare alsomeans for initiation.
Pyrophoric material is any liquid or solid
igniting spontaneously in air at or below
lJO·f (SC'q. Examples include phosprorus,
sodium. and barium.
Oxidizers are a dass of d8nic:al compowlds
that u.n reactvicMently withflammab1e and
combustible materials. 5oml! oommon types
vi Ol'idizers include chJorate>, nitrates, hydro-
gen peroxide, perchklric acid. and sulfuric
<liM. A\'Oid storage with incompatible JNteri-
<lI1s thai could reoll;t with the oxidjzer or cata-
lyze its decomposition.
Corrosive materials are those substanc'es
whim.can cause lI1jury to body tissue or be
corrosive to metal. Corrosive injury may be to
a minor degree (irritation) or actual physical
destruction of body tissues. Conos.ive chemi·
cals acton body tissues through direct contact
with the Uinor eyes, inhalation, or ingestion.
The key to woOOng saffiIy with chemicals is
krowledgeol their hazardous properties,
proper tniRng in twdling and disposal
techniques, and blEigalCY preparedness.
For proper ptota.-tior'<lIgainst Chemical Haz-
ards, ser ~ Prote...tive Equipment...
page 11.
latent Fingerprint SUd)' 2,.3
Refer 10 8Ioodbome Pathogen sakty, page 6,
when dealing with any human tissue or body
l1uid from <lIliving or deceased individual,
When latent print evidence is oontaminated by
human biolog:ical material, appropriate per-
sooaI protective equipment and. engineering
controls must be used during the examination.
Ught Source Safety 2,7,8
The use of ultraviolet (IN) lights, lasers, and
other altf:fi\iltive light sources are inaeasiog in
use not only in th! latent fingerprint field, but
in f<:n>nsic scienre in general. While these tools
ow 01 sre<lll value to the forensic scientist they
also create some potentially hiturdous condi-
tions, espeda!ly WA:n the U5t'I" is untrained or
unaware oithe hazards iJS50dated with their
use. The operator of;my light.sourc:e must be
P'operly trained in the use iIrd safety oi these
instruments. Regardless of u.,.light source
being used, it is abMNutdy es5ftltial thai <lIP'"
propriate tyew~ar be wom by th~ u:ser <lind
try all ~nn~1 in tbe vicinity of th~ device
When using UV IightSO\1l"CeS, it is essential that
an individual'seyes be protected fror'\ direct
exposure and. that prolonged exposure: to the
skin be avoided,
Because some 1asers create ilIl apparen"- ,
.--1
 point source of light which may rot be
visible 10 the viewer, there eJtists anena·
mous radianl t'llt'fg)' which Jw the potenI:iaI
10 cause irreversible damage 10 the retinal
tjqo'esol the eye from both direct and/or
~"""" """"-
Personal protection fa- the eyes requires
goggles which have suffide:nl protective
materia1&nd which are fitted 50 thai stray
Ught cannot: enter £rom any angle. AU laser
protective eyewear srouJd be cleiU'ly labeled
with the optical density and wavelength for
which protection is afforded.
Avoid both direct and indirect (reflected from
a pOOshed surface) eye and skin contact with
a collimated laser beam.
Eyeo.vear, worn whileconductingexamina·
tions using higtt-powered Iasefs,. should be
approved by the American National5lan-
duds Institute (ANSI), and have ilI\ optical
density of five or greater at the rmximum
operatir@wavelength.
Adequate ventilation should be pmvided
with aU lasers.
Lasers can present a srock haurd both in-
doors and outdoors in a wet environment.
Keep the exit port of the light source at a
sufficient distance from surfaces to prevent
overheating and combustion.
Weapoos5hould l"I?Verbe shipped orslored
in a loaded rondition.
Remove all ammunition from firunns and
follow DOTregulatians for tr&zlSp:lItation.
For submission u live ammunil:ion. buUets,
and/or guns, see page 58.
10
ConfiMd Space Safety 9
A confined space is an encIo6ed spac2 ~
enough fa- an indivkluallo bodilyenter and
paM ill as:sigre::I WOlk. It has lliniled or
COt\Stricted means of entry or exit and is rot
~ fa- oontinuou5 0lXUpanc:y.
Entry inloCO'\fined spaces ma.y e:xJXlI5e the
individu.a.llo a variety u hazards, including
to:.dc gases, expIosi.ve atmospheres, oxygen
deficiency, and electrical hazards.
Conditions in a coriiroed space must be
considered immediately dangerous to life
and health unless shown othelWlse.
Some safety tips kr working In confined.
spaces include
• Never enter a COll6ned space before all
haza.tds (atmospheric. ~and
medlanital) have been identified and pr0ce-
dures have been developed to deal with
"""'-
• Always isolaretheoonfined space from all
.......
Wlwanted energy SOUIt'eS or hu.ardous
.."
• Always maintain proper mechanical venti·
latiortln a confined space and make sure
ventilation equipment does not interfere with
entry, exit, and rescue proc«lures.
• Never Introduce hazards such as welding.
dH.ning so!verG. etc., in a oonfined space
witlv:Jul first making provisions lor these
"".....
• Alwioys lJOjutor for atmosphl!ric hazMd.s
(oxygen. combustiNes, toxins) prioc to and
during ""'Y.
• Always provide barrier$,as necessary, to
warn lltIautt-orix.ed pl.'l'SUItleI. ;mel. 10 keep
entrants safe from external haurds.
- Always provide ronstant oornmunicatiorul
between entrilllts and outside attendants,
and remember tohave backup communica-
tions if using two-way radios.
- Always wear appropriate pelSOllill pr0tec-
tive eq.rlpment; be familiiU with th! use arv;I
limitations d. that equipment;; and be sure it
is ..... operly maintained.
- Never attempt resa.Jl! in 01 confined sf*2
WIIes.s you are part of a designated rec;we
~am and have the proper knowledge, skills,
and equipment to effect II sale rescue.
-Use of safety belts and harnesses is ma~
dalory.
Foe' additional information. relet to the
OSHA standard for permit-requlnd c0n-
fined spaces, 29CFR 1910.146-
Personal Protective EquJpment
HUll! Prot«t:ion 10, 11
Hand P'Otection should be selEcted on the
basis of the material being handled and the
particular hazard (biological or chemical) in-
volved. For chemical resistance, select the
glove material that offers the best level of
protection for the chemicals handled. The
following are some glove material types and
their functions:
Nitrik (NBR) provides p,otectiOh from
acids, aLkaline solutions, hydJ'aulic ftuid.
photo solutions, fuels,lubricants, aromatic.
petroleum, and chlorinated soIvents.ltalso
offers elU'Pllent resistara to punctures. cuts,
ord~. .
Neopttne offers resistance to oil. grease,
adds, solvents, aloNes, bases, and most
refrigerants.
Polyvinyl chloridt (PVO is chemkally re-
sisUnt to alkalies, oils, limited concentra-
tians 01 nitric and chranic adds. This mate-
rial can be worn by fII06t workers who are
allergic 10 natwa! rubber.
•
Natural Rubber- 0 ,irK) resists mild.lids,
caustics, detergents, germicides ard ketonic
solut:ioM, but it willsweD and degrade if
exposed to gasoline and brosene. Because
paves made frcnlnatunl rubber (latex) are
adversdy affected by expo5~ to high tem-
peratures and din!ct sunlight.. they sIwJuId
oot be stored for an extended period of tinu:>
in the passenger area or trunk cl a car .
Have readily aro:'Ssible hypoalJergenic
gloves, glove liners, powderless gloves, ard
other slmilar alternatives for those allergic to
the lUIT\ally provided gloves.
Check the gtavesto be used lew tdes, punc-
tures,and tears and ~ ~orott8"
sharp objects whidl. may cause punctun!s..
Wear heavy (8-10 mil. thick) latex gloves ()l" a
double laya- of gkM:!s when workingwith
iremslwvily contaminated with blood ()l"
other human biological Jmlftial
Remove gloves carefully by gns~ the
cuffs and pulling them off inskie out, start-
Ing at W wrist and woridng toward the
"""~.
Discard disposable gloves in designated
containers. Do not reuse.
Eye Ptottction 1, 12
Eye protection is an important COI'\Sidera-
Don wren working at a crime scme or
when handling potentially hau.rd.ou5 ma-
terials. Apptqxate eye PlolectiOH (face
shiekis, goggles and safety ~mes) sIwJuId
be worn when handling ~y cl the following
materials:
 explosives
flammable materials
1,-
radioactive mattrials
UV light
Types of Eye Protmlun
lWer 10 Ameria.n National Standard Prac-
tice for Occupational and Educational Eye
and Face Protection, Amftkan National
Standuds In!ltitute, ANSI 281.1-1989 (or
latest ftVi5lon) Cor additional information.
At the crimI."~,you are likely to en-
I.XJU1\b!I" both bioJogica1 and chemical haz-
ards. There always ~ the poter.tial Cor
splashing biological fluids or chelnicals. In
additioo, flyingoo;a:U may enter theeye! if
not properly protected. safety glus"!
srould bewom at an times in the pl"e5el'\l:e
ci these hazards. In In06t instances, safety
gllS!?S with side shields are adequate.
Where there is d~ 01 splashing of
bioIogica.l fluids, chrmials, a flying pa.t""
tides, goggles aNJ./a full face Welds will
give more prore<:tion.
Contact Lenses
Contact Ien<;es are not to be used as eye plO'"
lection In thl.' e\'ent of a chemkaI splash
into the eye, it is often extremely difficult to
remove the contact lens to Irrigate the eye.
Gases and vapon; can be conoentl'llted Wl-
der such lenses and cause injury at perma-
l'"6lt eye damage.
Presaiption Safety Glasses
Crime scene personnel whose vision re-
quires the use oJ corrective Jenws stnlld
wear safety eye protection of one of the
following types:
12 >. Prescription safety glasses with
protective lenses.
• Safety eyewear that aut be worn oyer pre-
scription glasses without disturbing the ad-
justment of the glasses,
Safety Goggles
Goggles are not intended for general use.
1hey are intended for wear when there i!
daoget' of sp~ chemicals or flying
particles.
FuIHace masks/shields that pruta:t the faoe
and throat should always be worn when
maximum fliVb:".-"'tion rn.n flying partides
and han:nfulliquids (biological or cherrtical)
is reected.
Fool PlOtection 10
Shoes that rompl.etl'1y rover and protect the
bot an:! rernmmended. SOOes that expa;e
the foot in any way shookl. not be worn. In
additioo" fabric: shoes, such as tennis sMes,
should ro be worn as they may readily ab-
sorb liquid Uruinhazarlb1s situatioN;
may require footwear that has oonductive
.soles, insu1ared soles, steel. toe and shank.
and is chemical resiManL
Respiratoly Protection 1, 10, 13
Certain crime scenes, such as bombings and
clandestine laboratories,. may produce nox-
ious fumes and other airborne CU'\laminants
which require respiratory prorection.
Safety supply companiEs carry many types
oi respiraron; ranging from a disposable
dust mask to a self-oontaine<i breathing
apparatus. Selection shJuld be made ac-
cording to the guidelines in the Amerian
National Standard Practices for Respira-
tory Protection 2'..88,2-1992, after consulta-
tion with health and safety professionals.
The critical elements for the sua:essful use
01 a respirator irdude training. motivatioo,
medical evaluation,. fitlesting.. and a respi-
rator maintenarv:e program. Without a
completl:' respiratory protection program,
persormel will notreceive the degtee of
prolectioo anticipated from a respirator,
even if it is a lXlIIl!ct dIoice for the siluatiotl.
As a minimum. axnpliance with TItle 29
CFR 1910.1J4 is mandaloty whenever
mpiraloni are used by persormeI, wrether
on a required or voluntary basis.
Head Protection 14
EliminaOOnor control. of hazards leading to
an K'cident shmlld be V.'efl first ronside!"·
ation.but many accidents call5ing head
injuries are c\iIficulllO anticipate and
control, Where these conditions exist,
appropriate t.!ad protection must be p1'O'
vided 10 eliminate iJ1ury.
Head PlOtectia.. in the form 01 protective
hats, must resist penetration and absmb the
imp.1ct.ln certain situations, such as bomb-
ing5 which can cause structural damage to
a scene, additional head protection may be
necessary. Heavy-duty fireman+1)'pe hatr.
provide added protection to the ears and
posterior neck. Pn:tective helmets also pI'O'
ted against electrical shl;d(.
The stardard rerogniud by OSHA for
protective hats is contained in ANSI Rli'-
quirements for Industrial Head Prote<:-
tion. Z89.1·1986.. Thisslandard should be
consuliW for further details.
1 PmdentPnctkes for H;yvllioa Hazan1_
<!II! C'bemk.l, 10 l.abqgrprle< Narlonal Research
Coun<iI, Convnltlee on Hazardous SublWl<;elI in
Iht I..abcralory, NaIiorYl ~ Prm, WWting·
IOn, O.c. 1981.
3 '1Woport of5pl'cial0:llNritted,rSaMy:
InllHNtlona.l AYoc:Ytion for kknti6c:ation" 2516
OIls Drive. AIr.meda, CA.
4IameeM.Hom,MPS.tandRogerM.
Sobnon, "'1'""" Support: A Key Element lor Coping
with Trauma: PoIi<:>'Stren, Winter 1989, Vol. 9,
No. I. pp. '3-71.
5 US.eep.rt>nentofl...obor.~
s.hty and HaIth Adrrtinittrlltion" TIlil' 29 CFK SK-
IiDn 1910.1<00, "'Oo:upatimaI &posun! 10 BIood-
borne Pathogeu; ~ RuJe." [Ir;uoo,ibel6, 19\11.
6 Markl. Upfal, MD, MPH, Pgrket Guide
lQ first Aid for CbpmjrnJ !niudM Edill!d by",", R.
SIuarl. Gmium J'\Ibli!lhing Corpor.tlion,
Sche~~y, NY. 19\11.
7 fIootty ~l. as. RN. ~ It lame
RocK-ll, Jr~ "tSe. I.aRn:: 1~ tand
Reronunend.>tioN for the~ HNIIb
NUlk': AAOHN Upda"'Series3/14.
I Amer!QlO Natjooa! Stllylaq! fQr tbr Sate
II.," I rm (ANSI ZJ36.I-I'J86).Amerbn
'}oM V. Cnnfa1i. Cmf.ooi $pC f'rrm
CIddr. Edill!d by OristineGolmm,. Gonlurn.
J'\IbUshingCcrporation. 1992.
10! aborlVH;Y Survivo! Manual Environ-
mmtai Hei\lthand SafeiyOfm. Univelllityol
V;rglni6.~VA.
II "Ch:lo:M tbr Pn>pII' Glavellor 0wni<aI
Handling: Be:;Q Stfe!y P.......".." 1990 .3Olh Edt-
!ion, Pboeer lnduslrUl Products, WiILud, OH.
U Any:riran National Stanc!aq! PWtjrefqf
OrOJpaijQOj!I and Ed"q:lljoo&! EYI'and f«e Protf:<'-
tim. Amerhn Natlonll.l Standank INlitute, ANSI
Z87.1-1979, New York. NY.
1.3 H'UTr!cm' Wa:;re HaOOIMi Pprbt
~ EdilorOvWineGomurl\Cenium~
Corporation.Schenedady, NY, 19\11.
14 U5. Department of Labor, Occupational
5Il/ety tand I-VaIth Admlnlslratlon, "Personal Pro-
tective 6quipmEnl:05HA3a71. Re\'iHd 1m.
13
 Therefore, it is suggested
the discipline of forensic
science be regarded as a
multifaceted Ol"ll'. Each
level of evidence in-
volvement must be
planned, organi7.ed, illld
performed with a central
issue in mind-t'ffecti\"(>
use of the phySical evi-
dence to its greiltest
potential.

It should be ensured that

the crime scene seard1cs
are conducted in a sys-
tematic and mcttvxiical
fashion. Numerous sug-
Eviden« (~nnot M presumed to M mdnlt.-it must M proven_
gestions are pm;ented in
and, it must be documented and demonstrated_
terms of practical aspects
FBI Document Section of day·to-day search
operations.

The Crime Scene Due to the myriad situa-

The ph)'SlC'l1 evidellce recovered during invesllgatJonS of mme tions which can occur, it
scenes is ooeof the critkal areas in contemporary law enf~menl would be virtually im-
Often. the faets and tangible Items of evidence derwed from these possible to CO\"cr all c0n-
in\'estigatiOl\S make thediffereoce between success illld failure ceivable possibilities.
when a case is brought to trial. "11th thl'evotutionof the scientific Nonetheless, the mate-
aspects of forensic science, more attention must be awarded at rial contained hel'l?in
crime scenes to n.>covcring and maintaining tll(' integrity of evi- brings out significant
dffi«' which will bl:>eventually examined by specialists in the COIlCel'llS OOl1lmon to al-

mme lalxlratory. most all agencies. Addi-

tionally, these points
Onl> important consK!('!"il!xJn. beanng on the modern view of b- shouJd serve as catalysts
rensic science is that Itus field is sometlmes aSSOCiated only WIth foe the reader to gener-
work ocoomphshE'd In the crime 1a000atory. This consideration. ateother important
however, is in actuality n very limited perspectivc on the overall items based on specific
area of forensic science. It is obvious that the ability of the labora- Ilgency needs.
tory to provide scientific interpretations is depl'ndent to a gr<'<lt
extent on the reoogrution. rerovery and documentation of evidence If more information on
at the crime SC'enP. In es5(>1lCe, then. the field im'estigator ortrime this topic is needed, c0n-
scene tedvUdall is as much a part of forertsk science as the highly tact the Forensic ScieIll'l;'
skilled laboratory exammer.lf theevidence from a scene is not Training Unit, Quantico,
properly handled, the wO£kofthe cnmc laboratory can be Virginia, telephone
(iro)64G-l239.
IH _J1.indercd toOl great exlent