BS EN ISO 21043-2:2020: Forensic Sciences - Recognition, Recording, Collecting, Transport, and Storage of Items

In the intricate world of forensic sciences, precision, accuracy, and adherence to standardized procedures are paramount. The BS EN ISO 21043-2:2020 standard is an essential guide for professionals in the field, providing comprehensive guidelines on the recognition, recording, collecting, transport, and storage of forensic items. Released on April 7, 2020, this standard is a critical resource for ensuring the integrity and reliability of forensic evidence.

Key Features of the Standard

• Standard Number: BS EN ISO 21043-2:2020
• Pages: 24
• Release Date: April 7, 2020
• ISBN: 978 0 539 06475 9
• Status: Standard

Comprehensive Guidance for Forensic Professionals

This standard is meticulously crafted to support forensic professionals in maintaining the highest standards of practice. It covers a wide range of procedures and protocols that are crucial for the effective management of forensic items. From the initial recognition and recording of evidence to its collection, transport, and storage, each step is outlined with precision to ensure that the integrity of the evidence is preserved throughout the forensic process.

Recognition and Recording

The first step in the forensic process is the accurate recognition and recording of items. This standard provides detailed instructions on how to identify and document evidence in a manner that is both thorough and compliant with legal requirements. Proper documentation is essential for the chain of custody and for ensuring that evidence can be reliably used in legal proceedings.

Collecting Evidence

Collecting evidence is a critical phase where the potential for contamination or loss is high. The BS EN ISO 21043-2:2020 standard offers clear guidelines on how to collect evidence in a way that minimizes these risks. It emphasizes the importance of using appropriate tools and techniques to ensure that evidence is collected in its most pristine state.

Transport and Storage

Once evidence is collected, it must be transported and stored under conditions that prevent degradation or tampering. This standard provides protocols for the secure transport and storage of forensic items, ensuring that they remain in a condition suitable for analysis and presentation in court. It includes recommendations for packaging materials, environmental conditions, and security measures.

Why Choose BS EN ISO 21043-2:2020?

Adopting the BS EN ISO 21043-2:2020 standard is a testament to a commitment to excellence in forensic science. It not only enhances the credibility of forensic investigations but also ensures compliance with international best practices. By following this standard, forensic professionals can be confident that they are upholding the highest standards of evidence management.

International Recognition

This standard is recognized internationally, making it a valuable asset for forensic laboratories and professionals who operate on a global scale. It aligns with other international standards, facilitating cross-border cooperation and understanding in forensic investigations.

Enhancing Professional Competence

Forensic professionals who adhere to this standard demonstrate a high level of competence and professionalism. It serves as a benchmark for training and development, ensuring that all personnel involved in the forensic process are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to perform their duties effectively.

Conclusion

The BS EN ISO 21043-2:2020 standard is an indispensable tool for anyone involved in the field of forensic sciences. Its comprehensive guidelines ensure that forensic items are managed with the utmost care and precision, safeguarding the integrity of evidence from the crime scene to the courtroom. By integrating this standard into your forensic practices, you are not only enhancing the quality of your work but also contributing to the advancement of forensic science as a whole.

BS EN ISO 21043-2:2020

• 07.140 Forensic science

This document specifies requirements for the forensic process focusing on recognition, recording, collection, transport and storage of items of potential forensic value. It includes requirements for the assessment and examination of scenes but is also applicable to activities that occur within the facility. This document also includes quality requirements.

This document is not applicable to procedures for the recovery of data from digital storage media which is covered by ISO/IEC 27037. However, the storage medium itself can yield additional items of forensic value (e.g. fingerprints or DNA).

Annex D shows the applicability of this document to the forensic process.