Note Taking: Forensic Science

Summary

This tutorial provides guidance on conducting forensic examinations, focusing on the importance of maintaining sterile lab environments and accurate documentation. It emphasizes the correct use of PPE, cleaning procedures, and organizing examination workspaces. The process of evaluating forensic packaging integrity, documenting exhibits, and testing for DNA, blood, or other evidence is detailed step by step. It also highlights the use of color-coded notes and diagrams for clarity in court. The instructor stresses the importance of precision, thoroughness, and asking questions when in doubt.

Takeaways

• 🧑‍🔬 Full PPE including a lab coat and latex gloves must be worn when working in the lobby.
• 📄 Each lab practical has a risk assessment and C paperwork, which are accessible online.
• 🧽 Desks must be cleaned with forensic cleaning products like Teeple to maintain a sterile environment for DNA work.
• 📦 Forensic scientists must critique packaging upon receipt, ensuring it has no seal compromises or incomplete paperwork.
• ✂️ Always open forensic exhibits away from the original CSI or police seal to preserve integrity for court.
• 👕 Items like shirts should be described thoroughly, including labels, sizes, colors, and any distinct smells or features.
• 📋 Notes must document the exhibit condition, such as wear, tear, or newness, and be detailed for future reference.
• 🔍 The examination process should follow a structured approach, noting any tests like DNA or blood analysis.
• 🎨 Diagrams and drawings of forensic items are encouraged, using color coding (red for blood, blue for saliva, purple for semen).
• ⚖️ Detailed, organized notes help forensic scientists provide accurate testimony in court, preserving the chain of evidence.

Q & A

What are the basic PPE requirements when working in the lab?

You must wear full PPE, including a lab coat and latex gloves, when working in the lab to ensure safety during lab practicals.

What is the first thing you should do when entering the lab?

The first step is to clean your desk with cleaning products, such as a forensic cleaning solution, to ensure that your workspace is sterile since DNA work is carried out in the lab.

What are the key components of the examination paperwork?

The examination paperwork includes fields for exhibit reference details, police reference details, and critiques of the forensic packaging. The paperwork should match the exhibits for the examination to continue.

Why is it important not to open a forensic exhibit on the CSI or police officer's seal?

The seal should remain intact to maintain the integrity of the exhibit. This ensures that if the exhibit is later presented in court, it shows that the seal was not compromised during examination.

What is the procedure if an exhibit's packaging is compromised?

If the packaging is compromised, such as a broken seal or incomplete information, the examination cannot continue. The compromised packaging should be documented in the examination notes.

What should you look for during the initial inspection of an exhibit?

During the initial inspection, you should describe the exhibit, including its type, labels, logos, condition, and any signs of wear or damage. This description is crucial for future forensic analysis.

What is the importance of documenting forensic exhibits in detail?

Detailed documentation ensures that all relevant information is recorded for future reference, particularly in court. This includes descriptions, tests performed, and results found during the forensic examination.

What types of tests might you perform on an exhibit in forensic science?

Tests such as DNA analysis, fiber recovery, or blood testing using the Kastle-Meyer kit (KM test) might be performed, depending on the requirements specified by the police officer in the paperwork.

Why is it useful to draw a diagram of the forensic exhibit?

Drawing a diagram of the exhibit allows you to accurately document the location of any evidence, such as fibers or stains. A larger, well-labeled diagram can be helpful for future analysis and court presentations.

What color coding system is used in forensic science for documenting evidence types?

The standard forensic color coding system uses red for blood, blue for saliva, and purple for semen stains. These colors correspond to the reactions observed in presumptive tests for these substances.