The Scenes of Crime Handbook

Transcription

1 The Scenes of Crime Handbook

2 Introduction Welcome to the Forensic Science Service (FSS ) Scenes of Crime Handbook. The overall aim of this handbook is to encourage police forces and international law enforcement agencies to make the most effective and efficient use of forensic science. It has been produced for use as a reference for situations where samples and exhibits are to be collected and submitted to any forensic laboratory and deals with all aspects of sampling, packaging and the prevention of contamination. Introduction The Forensic Science Service This edition has been expanded to offer more detailed advice in specific areas. However, situations may arise which require special treatment. In these instances please seek advice from your local laboratory. For further copies of this handbook, please contact Scenesafe: Scenesafe Unit 29 Gravelly Industrial Park BIRMINGHAM B24 8HZ Tel: Fax: scenesafe@fss.pnn.police.uk Website: 2

3 Contents Section...Page 1. Health and Safety Avoiding Contamination Samples Required for Examination Preservation Charts...14 Contents The Forensic Science Service 5. Body Samples Documents Drugs Electronic Forensics Explosives Fibres, Hair and Fur Fire Investigation Glass Marks Miscellaneous Paint Toxicology Vehicles Weapons

4 1. Health and Safety Health and Safety Guidelines Safety and the preservation of life take precedence over evidence collection. The handling of many forensic samples may constitute a health hazard. Recommended precautions must be strictly adhered to for the obtaining, handling and transportation of many materials. Please refer to the following guidelines for appropriate health and safety advice. Within the UK the FSS has a duty under the Health & Safety at Work Act (1974) to protect employees and others who may be affected by its acts or omissions, against foreseeable risks to their health and safety. Please refer to your local Health & Safety legislation for procedures as some of the items you may wish to submit could be of a hazardous nature. The laboratory needs to be confident that items are packaged in such a way that they do not pose a risk to the carriers, reception staff, scientists or analysts. Health and Safety The Forensic Science Service The responsibility for the submission of hazardous materials in a safe condition lies with individual police forces or law enforcement agencies and it is anticipated that suitable procedures have been or will be formulated. This advice will, if followed, help us protect all personnel likely to be affected and will assist in compliance of health and safety regulations. Hazardous materials could include the following: All liquid blood and body fluid samples, including toxicological samples. Any item stained with blood or other body fluid. Items infested with parasites. Hazardous chemicals. Explosives, explosive devices, incendiary materials and pyrotechnics. (Please note: All examination of Explosives, Pyrotechnics etc. are carried out by the FEL DSTL FORT HALSTEAD). Firearms and ammunition. Any item with a sharp edge capable of causing penetration or injury. WARNING! Do not eat, drink, smoke or touch the facial area while handling samples and then not until you have washed your hands! 4

5 1. Disinfection Guidelines Commercial thick bleach can be used for spillages of biologically hazardous material. This should be left in contact with the contaminated area before rinsing and wiping dry. For general disinfection e.g. work surfaces after handling biological specimens, a 1 in 10 dilution of commercial thick bleach should be used as above. It should be noted that dilutions of thick bleach do not remain effective for periods in excess of a few days. 2. Personal Protection Guidelines Consult with your local laboratory before submitting hypodermic paraphernalia. All body fluid samples should always be regarded as potentially infectious. If samples or organs originate from a person known, or suspected to have suffered from any form of hepatitis, tuberculosis, immunodeficiency virus (HIV/AIDS) or communicable diseases, the laboratory must be informed at the time the samples are submitted. Cover any cuts or grazes on your hands with waterproof dressings. Wash your hands often, especially when beginning and ending a new task, before break or meal times, before smoking and at the beginning and end of duty periods. 3. Handling and Submission Guidelines If you are aware that a specimen has leaked, is contagious in any way, or is hazardous for any of the reasons mentioned above you must inform the receiving forensic laboratory. Handle all items or specimens as gently and as little as possible. Notify the laboratory if items are known or suspected to be infected. Indicate clearly if any items submitted for analysis are likely to be contaminated with CS gas or PAVA incapacitant. Submission of any material believed to be, or to contain, explosive substances should only be taken with prior discussion and agreement with the receiving laboratory. To ensure safe submission of any firearm it will be necessary for each weapon to have been checked by an authorised firearms user and to be accompanied by a signed record/label confirming that it is safe for transport. 5

6 Notify the forensic laboratory in advance if submitting items weighing more than 15kg or large items likely to present handling difficulties. Items with sharp edges or points capable of causing penetrating injury must be placed in suitably robust packaging to ensure the safety of those subsequently transporting or handling them. 4. Packaging and Labelling Guidelines Wherever possible plastic containers i.e. tubs, pots, etc should be used unless specific to a sample. Glass containers must never be frozen as they may shatter upon thawing and this is classed as an unacceptable health risk. Laboratories do not normally expect to receive damp or wet items. These should be dried prior to submission. However, if expediency is required for a particular case, or, safety/contamination may be compromised, the laboratory may accept these items. However, the receiving forensic laboratory should be notified in advance as arrangements will have to be made for safe drying facilities. Never use staples to seal bags. Always use adhesive tape and seal all edges. Ideally use Biohazard tape on biological samples or items bearing body fluids. Wherever possible, forensic laboratory toxicology kits should be used for the submission of post-mortem samples. These Scenesafe kits have been extensively tested and will, when sealed properly, prevent leakage of the contents. Organs and body fluid samples in non-scenesafe packaging should be heat sealed into polythene bags which should contain plenty of absorbent material. Health and Safety The Forensic Science Service 4.1. Packaging and labelling of liquid body fluid samples and organs All samples should be contained in a primary watertight container, which should be wrapped in sufficient absorbent material (e.g. paper tissues) to absorb the entire contents in the event of a leak or breakage. Samples should then be sealed in watertight secondary packaging (usually a polythene bag). All second level packaging should bear the international Biohazard sign. This must be placed in a third packaging of adequate strength for its capacity, mass and intended use Packaging and labelling of items stained with wet or dry body fluids To transport wet items from a scene to a drying room/cabinet use double bagging - place item in an unsealed polythene bag, then in a secondary sealed polythene bag and further outer bags if necessary. Remove from polythene bags in drying room/cabinet to allow drying. Once dry place in a paper sack and seal. 6

7 Care should always be taken to prevent accidental contamination between different items that are dried in the same room or cabinet. Drying facilities should be cleaned after each item is removed. It should be noted that any wet biological samples, including those for DNA analysis, may decompose when stored and transported at ambient temperature. If submission to the laboratory is delayed, the packaged sample should be stored in a deep freeze. Do not allow items to thaw, items must remain frozen. Items bearing dry body fluid staining should be securely packaged in paper sacks as primary containers. Do not use staples to seal. 4.3 Packaging and labelling of body fluid swabs Place into original swab sleeve or tube. Such items should be placed into suitable secondary packaging (usually a polythene bag) bearing the international Biohazard sign, then, into suitable third level packaging for transport to the laboratory. 5. Transportation Guidelines Dependent upon the form of transport used, the third level packaging may need labelling as follows: An Infectious Substances transportation label. A This Way Up label. A label giving an emergency contact telephone number. If the third level packages are to be placed within commercial carrier transport boxes the three labels identified above should be placed on the exterior of these boxes. 5.1 Transportation of liquid body fluid samples and organs These samples are classified as Infectious Substances for the purpose of transport by road or rail because they may contain pathogens such as Hepatitis B or HIV. Several items may be packaged in any one third level packaging but their total volume must not exceed 500ml as, for volumes greater than these, special legal requirements apply to packaging for transport. 5.2 Transportation of biologically hazardous material in vehicles Liquid body fluid samples and organs should be securely packaged and labelled as described above. 7

8 Where vehicular transport other than a commercial carrier is used consideration should be given to placing packages in deep sided plastic boxes with sealable lids, lined with absorbent material which will retain spilled materials. Such boxes constitute third level packaging and should be labelled as previously described. The procurement of boot/load carrying area liners is recommended to enable the load carrying area of vehicles to be effectively cleaned or disinfected in case of spillage. 5.3 Transportation of biologically hazardous material by post Refer to your local postal regulations for pathological specimens to clarify the distinction between "infectious samples" and "diagnostic samples". Diagnostic specimens (the majority of forensic submissions) are currently defined as those which are thought unlikely to contain pathogens in risk group 2 or 3 (i.e. Hepatitis or HIV) and may be sent in packaging meeting the criteria previously identified in paragraph 4 of this section. Health and Safety The Forensic Science Service All infectious substances, currently defined as those which are known or thought likely to contain pathogens in risk group 2 or 3 from an admission by the donor or through other information must be packaged to UN Standard 602 and can only be submitted through the post if they conform to this more rigorous packaging standard which involves the use of approved secondary and outer packaging that is accredited by the relevant drop and puncture tests. FSS Scenesafe Evidence Recovery Kits and packaging can provide suitable containers for most submissions. These items have been designed for ease of use by both crime scene examiners and the scientist or analyst. They are also subject to rigorous quality control procedures. For further information please contact: Scenesafe Unit 29 Gravelly Industrial Park BIRMINGHAM B24 8HZ Tel: Fax: website: 8

9 2. Avoiding Contamination Current DNA profiling techniques are extremely sensitive and have become even more so in recent years, therefore, they offer exceptional benefits to investigations enabling the analysis of ever-decreasing sample sizes. However, these advancements have also resulted in the need for an increased awareness that background DNA deposited prior to an offence and DNA deposited inadvertently during the investigation of an offence are more likely to be detected than before. Nothing can be done to reduce the background DNA, but it is essential that everyone in the investigative process is aware of the importance of maintaining the integrity of forensic evidence and takes appropriate steps to minimise the risks posed by the inadvertent addition or transfer of DNA during crime scene examination. The scene is vulnerable from the moment a crime is committed so the transfer of DNA by innocent parties (including investigators) can potentially become an issue long before items have been submitted to the forensic science laboratory. Guidelines The following advice should be followed to reduce the inadvertent deposition or transfer of DNA to items at or from the crime scene: Personal Protective Equipment Barrier clothing should be used as often as possible. Disposable powder free gloves must always be worn; they should be fitted over the tops of cuffs and should be changed after handling individual items. Face masks must be worn and the wearer should refrain from talking whilst sampling or when in close proximity to possible sources of DNA evidence or otherwise manipulating the face mask whilst at the scene. Gloves and face masks should be changed regularly away from the scene. For serious offences, overshoes and scene-suits with hoods should be worn and not removed or otherwise handled unnecessarily at the scene. Additional barrier clothing such as mob caps should be worn if an individual has to attend the scene and suffers from such conditions as eczema or severe dandruff. 9

10 Activities at the Scene Ideally the action within the scene should be controlled by a suitably trained Crime Scene Manager. Access to the Scene of Crime (SOC) should be limited as far as possible to those personnel who need to have access for a specific reason. Anyone suffering from a medical condition that causes the shedding of body fluids or particles (e.g. colds, coughs, influenza or skin conditions) should be discouraged from attending the scene. Verbal communication whilst within the SOC should be minimised even if masks are worn. Movement within the SOC should be kept to the minimum possible for the task in hand. The touching of spectacles, face, telephones, door handles, light switches, pens, paper etc. without subsequently changing gloves should be avoided. Avoiding Contamination The Forensic Science Service Taking Samples Items should be handled carefully and as little as possible then packaged at the earliest opportunity. Only handle one item at a time. All work areas, scientific and non-scientific, should be regularly cleaned (see Health and Safety section 1). Working surfaces and non-disposable equipment should be cleaned prior to, and after every use, with alcohol based wipes to be effective against DNA. These should contain Chlorhexidine. Wherever possible sterile disposable materials should be used which have been deemed compatible with DNA processing. Scenesafe provide suitable materials that are free from DNA which includes swabs and water. All swabs used for sampling should be free from detectable levels of DNA before they are used, as swabs containing background DNA may give rise to misleading results. The sample swabs should be submitted to the laboratory together with an unused control swab from the same batch. Swabs that have been tested for the presence of DNA and declared to be suitable for recovering DNA samples are available from Scenesafe. Control swabs should only need to be examined if it becomes necessary for the investigation of artefact peaks in a DNA profile. Dependent on the background level of DNA found on such control swabs it may not be possible to reliably interpret any mixed profiles obtained from the sample swabs. 10

11 If required, a minimal amount of sterile distilled water may be used to moisten the swab and as much of the stain as possible concentrated in one area. Distilled water tested for the presence of DNA and declared to be suitable for recovering DNA samples should be used. If this is not possible, the laboratory must be notified that an unvalidated source of water has been used and a sample of the water must be forwarded for analysis to the laboratory. This is because water from an unvalidated source, or its container, may well contain levels of background DNA that could potentially give misleading results and the water will then need to be checked for the presence of such DNA. Whenever water has been used to assist in recovery of the sample, it is important that the swab is frozen as soon as possible afterwards as unfrozen moisture will speed up the degradation of DNA, thereby reducing the chances of obtaining a full DNA profile. Suspects and Victims All contact between control samples and items from suspects or victims must be avoided. Anyone who has attended the scene or has been involved with the collection or packaging of control samples must not have been in contact with the suspect or their clothing, before or after the scene attendance or during the collection and packaging of items. Multiple suspects, the victim and any items from these must be kept apart at all times and they should not be allowed to come into contact with the same objects (e.g. police car, interview room, custody suite). During transportation a protective disposable cover should be provided for the victim or suspect to sit on in the vehicle. Examination suites and custody suites should be forensically monitored. Transportation and Packaging All items for laboratory examination should be packaged, sealed and labelled at the time they are taken; wherever possible, the packaging should be taken to the item and not the item to the packaging. Packaging and other containers should be of a suitable size and shape so as to minimise the risk of them being damaged or lids not fitting securely. Packaging and other containers should never be re-used. If an attempt has been made to use packaging or other containers for one item and it is found to be unsuitable, it should not then be used for a different item. It must be discarded or enclosed in the packaging of the item with which it has been in contact. All packaging and containers should be sealed securely, using adhesive tape on all edges. Staples should never be used. 11

12 Once sealed, the packaging or containers should not be reopened, even for interview purposes. If subsequent viewing of the items might be required, bags or containers with transparent panels should be used, or, take a digital/polaroid photograph of each exhibit and attach to the side of the packaging. All outer containers used for transportation (e.g. cool boxes, crates, and boxes) should be cleaned prior to, or after, every use (see Health and Safety Section 1). Control samples should never be transported in the same outer container as items from the suspect. Separate outer containers should be used for control samples and items from each suspect and victim. If any of the above guidelines are not, or cannot be followed, for whatever reason, or contamination is known to have occurred the forensic laboratory must be informed. Avoiding Contamination The Forensic Science Service 12

13 3. Samples Required for Examination Key: Essential samples - always take These samples may be required - consider taking Examination Type Samples Required Clothing/Paper Clothing & Sheet of Paper Intimate Urine (Preserved) Blood For DNA Analysis Blood (Preserved) For Alcohol/Drug/Solvent Abuse Penile Swab Anal Swab External Internal Vaginal Swab External Low Internal or High Internal Cervical Swab If 2+ days after offence Pubic Hair Combings (Comb to be submitted with combings) Pulled/Cut Fragments Paint, glass, etc. from wounds Nose Swabs For gunshot residues Non-Intimate Saliva Mouth Swab Not for The National DNA Database Skin/Hair Samples For gunshot residues Head Hair for Alien Hair Combings (Comb to be submitted with combings) For paint, glass, etc. For fibres Head Hair Pulled/Cut Fingernail Samples Body Fluid Traces on Skin Cosmetic Traces on Skin Medical Examination Form Assaults /Body Harm Murder Suspects Drug/ Drink Driving Armed Robbery Burglary Offence Type Suspect Poisoning /Drugging Female Victim RAPE Male Suspect ANAL INTERCOURSE Female Victim Male Victim Male Suspect Samples Required for Examination The Forensic Science Service 13

14 4. Preservation Charts Please Note: The following chart is a guideline only. For more detailed information refer to the individual sections of the handbook, particularly where samples or circumstances are unusual. Current DNA profiling techniques are extremely sensitive. Contamination avoidance procedures must be strictly adhered to. All contact between control materials and clothing from individuals must be avoided. Take the following precautions: Ensure that anyone who has attended the scene or been involved with the packaging of control samples has no contact with the suspect or their clothing. Avoid situations where the same officer takes possession of clothing from a suspect and victim in the same case. Multiple suspects, the victim and their clothing must be kept apart at all times and should not be allowed to come into contact with the same objects or people e.g. police car, interview room, custody suite, Forensic Medical Examiners, Police Surgeons etc. The same officer should not search a property and then deal with persons or objects linked to the property. All exhibits should be packaged and sealed as soon as they are taken. Do not pack the control samples in the same outer container as items obtained from the suspect. Use separate sacks for control samples and multiple suspects and victim s clothing. If freezing, do not completely fill containers as they may break on freezing. 14

15 SAMPLE CONTAINER STORAGE COMMENTS Accelerants or Volatile Substances Blood Preserved for alcohol, carbon monoxide, volatiles and drugs. Must be stored in a nylon bag, tied and sealed at the top with a swanneck. See diagram on page 65. Container with fluoride preservative and anticoagulant. Dry environment. Refrigerate or freeze. Refer to Fire Investigation Section on page 64. Do not use glass hospital type fluoride/oxalate containers - they may contain insufficient preservative. Do not completely fill containers as they may break on freezing. For meaningful alcohol determination preserved blood is essential. Where volatiles analysis is required samples should be frozen. Preservation Charts The Forensic Science Service Blood Preserved for DNA. Plastic monovette, 1fl.oz. Sterilin or EDTA vial. Refrigerate. If for long term retention, freeze. Do not use glass hospital type fluoride/oxalate containers, they may contain insufficient preservative. Do not completely fill containers as they may break on freezing. Note: this actual sample has been replaced with buccal scrape contained in the suitable kit available from Scenesafe. Blood Unpreserved for drugs. Container with anticoagulant e.g. EDTA. Refrigerate or freeze. Drugs analysis can be carried out using unpreserved as well as preserved blood. Do not completely fill containers as they may break on freezing. Blood Recovered from a scene. Swab, scrape or collect as appropriate. Cool, dry environment or freeze if wet. Refer to Body Samples Section on page 21. If blood is wet - freeze. Dry blood may be refridgerated. Bone Shaft including marrow Preserved for DNA. 150ml sterile screw cap jar or 1fl.oz. Sterilin. Freeze. For when bodies are severely decomposed. Do not add fixatives or preservatives. Cannabis Leaves Brown paper envelope or brown paper bag. Cool, dry environment. Perforate the envelopes or bags with a hole punch to stop degradation. Cannabis Plants Brown paper bag or sack, one per plant. Cool, dry environment. Do not water plants after seizure and do not strip leaves from plants. The roots should remain and the excess soil should be taken off. 15

16 SAMPLE CONTAINER STORAGE COMMENTS Cigarette Ends Suitable sterile rigid container (such as a K456 cigarette collection container). Cool, dry environment, or freeze if wet. Condoms Put into rigid sterile plastic container. Freeze. The end of the condom should be sealed, regardless of visible contents, with a freezer clip, provided in the K396 Condom Collection Kit available from Scenesafe. This is preferable to tying a knot as the latter may compromise fingerprints potentially present on the outside of the condom. In addition tying a knot will increase the potential for DNA contamination. Damp or Wet Items e.g. clothing, bedding, etc. Allow wet items to dry. If not possible store in a polythene bag and freeze immediately or they will go mouldy. Seal shoes in polythene bag and freeze immediately or they will go mouldy. Do not accelerate drying by using heat. Damp or wet items should be air dried in a suitable, safe environment, e.g. drying room, fume cabinet etc. Care must be taken to avoid contamination and to observe Health and Safety Regulations. If items cannot be dried, contact the laboratory and submit items immediately in polythene bags. Dry Items e.g. clothing, bedding, etc. Suitable sized brown paper bag. Fold twice at the top and seal all open edges with adhesive tape. Do not put shoes into polythene bags unless freezing, as they go mouldy. Cool, dry environment. Ensure that position and orientation is clearly marked with labels e.g. bedding. Items bearing traces of noxious or volatile materials should not be packaged in paper bags - refer to Section 11 Fire Investigation, Section 14 Miscellaneous Traces or Section 18 Weapons, as appropriate. Deep Muscle Tissue Preserved for DNA. 1fl.oz. Sterilin. Freeze. Drugs analysis can be carried out using unpreserved as well as preserved blood. Do not completely fill containers as they may break on freezing. 16

17 SAMPLE CONTAINER STORAGE COMMENTS Drinking Vessels Fibre Tapings Fingernail Clippings Foodstuffs inc. chewing gum. Suitable sterile container, generally sealed polythene bag. Sealed individually in polythene bags. Use sealed nail clipper over prefolded paper packet. Seal in tamper evident bag or sterile plastic container. Store in sterile plastic container. Freeze. Dry environment. Freeze. Refrigerate or freeze. Keep items containing liquids upright and ideally in their original container. If the latter cannot be readily and securely sealed, decant liquid into a sealable sterile, plastic container and submit both this and the original container. Freeze any decanted liquid, otherwise store in a cool dry environment. Carbonated and alcoholic drinks may cause DNA on the drinking vessel to be degraded. Swabbing at the scene prior to seizing the vessel can avoid potential loss of evidence. Ensure that each taping is labelled with the exact location from where it came. Due to the sensitivity of current DNA techniques, clippings are preferred to scrapings. If nails are too short swab for debris using fine pointed swabs. Refrigerate for short term storage or where foodstuff has high water content. Seek advice of forensic provider on longer term storage. Do not wrap foodstuffs in paper or plastic wrapping. Preservation Charts The Forensic Science Service Glass Controls Head Hairs Sturdy cardboard Dry environment. box, sealed at all edges. Additional protection can be gained from placing inside a sealed polythene bag. Ensure that head Cool, dry hair combings are environment. taken over a large sheet of paper snd submit comb. Seal in a polythene bag when freezing. For toxicology wrap hair in foil and place inside an envelope and a TE bag and store in cool dry conditions. Control glass samples to be taken from any remaining glass within the window frame where possible and marked as to which side was facing outwards. Do not use the combings as a control sample. Cut or swab relevant area. Remove any large pieces of foreign material and package separately in screw-capped vials. Tape head using low adhesive tape or comb hair if an item has been placed on the head. Cut a representative sample of hairs close to the skin. Submit scissors if used to cut hair. Controls and samples required for screening for contaminants such as body fluids or particulates should be frozen. For toxicology cut a pencil thickness of hair close to the scalp and wrap foil around root end before placing in an envelope and a TE bag (K127). 17

18 SAMPLE CONTAINER STORAGE COMMENTS Liquid Semen Swab, scrape or collect as appropriate. Freeze. Refer to Body Samples Section on page 21. Liver For drugs. Screw cap container e.g. white plastic tub. Refrigerate or freeze. Approx gms. Lungs For volatiles. Screw cap container e.g. white plastic tub (K111). Where volatiles are suspected place inside a sealed nylon bag inside a sealed container (K113). Refrigerate or freeze. This sample can be useful in cases of solvent abuse e.g. glue sniffing. Miscellaneous Traces. Damp or wet debris e.g. oils, greases. Ideally in original container. Other suitably sized plastic container. Seal in a polythene bag. Dry environment. Refer to Miscellaneous Traces Section on page 76. Miscellaneous Traces. Dry debris e.g. metals, building materials. Pre-folded paper packet. See diagram on page 60. Seal in a polythene bag. Dry environment. Refer to Miscellaneous Traces Section on page 76. For larger amounts of material place in a large sealable plastic container or double bag in heavy gauge polythene bags. Other Drugs Items Tamper-evident bags should be used for most items. Cool, dry environment. Sharp or breakable items should be placed in tamper-evident bags and then placed into a more robust container, or a weapons tube can be used. Paint Pre-folded paper packet. See diagram on page 60. Seal in a polythene bag. Dry environment. Same principles for control and recovered paint. For larger items seal in brown paper poly bags, brown paper sacks etc. Create a securely sealed package for continuity and anti-contamination purposes. Pubic Hairs Include comb. Seal in a polythene bag. Freeze. Same principles for controls and combings. Do not use the combings as a control sample. Cut and remove matted pubic hair and package separately. Cut or swab relevant area. Comb hair and collect debris on paper. Hairs recovered with visible root material must be packaged in a polythene bag only, not in a prefolded paper packet. 18

19 SAMPLE CONTAINER STORAGE COMMENTS Sanitary Wear; Tampons, sanitary towels, disposable nappies, etc. Objects Used to Facilitate an Indecent Assault Sanitary wear container (K397) or sealed polythene bag. Place each individual item in a separate, suitable, properly sealed container. Freeze. Freeze. Cool, dry environment. Items should be placed in sanitary wear container or polybag, which is to be sealed and frozen immediately. Do not store these items in polythene bags unless being frozen. If fingerprints are required, check with forensic provider for guidance before freezing. Avoid putting paper bags in the freezer as they go wet/damp and can tear. Intimate swabs may also be required in this circumstance, see section 5. Vaginal, anal or oral swabs (page 21). Preservation Charts The Forensic Science Service Stomach and Contents For drugs. Screw cap container e.g. white plastic tub (K111). Refrigerate or freeze. Include entire contents. Unused Swabs If swabs are being submitted an unused/unopened swab must always be supplied. Swabs Original sterile swab tube. Freeze. If swabs need to be moistened, use sterile water. Do not air dry. Submit sterile water container as well. Swabs taken for CS gas traces must NOT be frozen. Underwear Suitable sized brown paper sack. Fold twice at the top and seal all open edges with adhesive tape. Sealed polythene bag for small frozen items. Dry environment (freeze only small items if unable to dry). Damp or wet underwear should be dried if at all possible before packaging and submitting. The original packaging should be retained and submitted also. If this is not possible, small items can be placed in sealed polythene bags and frozen immediately. Avoid putting paper bags into the freezer as they go damp/wet and can tear. 19

20 SAMPLE CONTAINER STORAGE COMMENTS Urine Preserved for alcohol and drugs. Container with fluoride preservative. Refrigerate or freeze. Urine is passed into a collection vessel and approximately 20ml decanted into the urine container (fill to line, do not exceed). Screw cap on firmly; Invert several times (recommended 30 seconds). Do not remove preservative tablet. Do not use hospital type fluoride/oxalate containers - they may contain insufficient preservative. For meaningful alcohol determination, preserved urine is essential. Do not completely fill containers as they may break on freezing. Sample should be collected as soon as possible. Scenesafe have an Early Evidence Kit available to facilitate collection of early samples. Urine Unpreserved for drugs. 1fl.oz. Sterilin, plain universal or screw cap container. Refrigerate or freeze. If sample is unpreserved it should be brought to the attention of the laboratory. Drugs analysis can be carried out on unpreserved as well as preserved urine. Do not completely fill containers as they may shatter on freezing. Vitreous Humour Preserved for alcohol and drugs. Container with fluoride preservative. Refrigerate or freeze. For decomposing bodies, or when burnt. Vomit Dried Screw cap container e.g. white plastic tub (K111). Cool, dry environment. Remove stained area to appropriate solid container. Vomit Moist Screw cap container e.g. white plastic tub (K111). Freeze. Collect on a Cobex sheet and transfer vomit and sheet to appropriate solid container. 20

21 5. Body Samples This section is for dealing with cases involving: The examination of biological samples that may require DNA analysis. For cases involving: Biological samples for alcohol, drugs or poisons analysis. Please refer to Section 17 - Toxicology. WARNING! The handling of body fluids constitutes a health hazard. Recommended precautions must be strictly adhered to for the obtaining, handling and transportation of biological materials. Refer to the Health and Safety Section of this Handbook for further guidance. Body Samples The Forensic Science Service Guidelines for the Collection of Samples The FSS recommends the use of a medical examination kit, particularly in instances of sexual offence, where samples of blood, semen and/or saliva are required. These kits can be obtained from Scenesafe and are suitable for use in the examination of suspects and complainants, they contain advice regarding sampling and packaging of material. The forms contained in the kits must be completed for each person examined. If the person has had a blood transfusion within the last three months inform the laboratory. Remember that a buccal scrape or hair sample will suffice. TYPE OF EXHIBIT SAMPLING STORAGE 1. CONTROL SAMPLES For criminal investigations submitted to the laboratory, buccal scrapes are the preferred control. Collect using the appropriate DNA kit, available separately from Scenesafe or as part of the Medical Examination Kit. If these are not available take pulled hairs. 1.1 Blood Note this actual sample has been replaced with a buccal scrape contained in the suitable DNA kit available from Scenesafe. 21

22 TYPE OF EXHIBIT SAMPLING STORAGE 1.2 Buccal Scrapes For submission to the UK National DNA Database or as an evidential sample (separate kits are available from Scenesafe for both purposes). Scrape the inside of the cheek 4-5 times with the serrated edge to remove cells from the lining of the mouth. Take two sterile scrapes, one from each cheek. Place into appropriately labelled tube. Freeze as soon as possible. 1.3 Hair (for DNA purposes) See also Section 9 - Fibres, Hairs and Fur and Section 16 Toxicology. Minimum of 10 plucked head hairs with visible roots present. Store frozen in a polythene bag. The preferred control sample for mitochondrial DNA analysis is a buccal scrape. A control hair sample will incur an increased charge. 1.4 Post Mortem Samples Blood samples from the deceased can prove problematic. Tissue samples such as psoas muscle and bone marrow should also be taken. Deep muscle tissue or bone marrow may yield DNA in badly decomposed bodies. Tissue samples should be frozen in suitable, sealed, sterile plastic containers. Do not put tissue in fixative or preservative. Samples which are to be submitted to the UK National DNA Database must be taken with the approved sampling kit. The preferred sample is a buccal scrape, however a hair sample will suffice. 2. EVIDENTIAL SAMPLES 2.1 Blood Where possible whole items should be submitted to the laboratory. 2.2 Blood on Immovable Items Liquid Blood Collect samples using a dry, sterile swab. If blood is partially clotted, lift on a sterile disposable blade. Return swabs immediately to appropriate swab sleeve/tube and seal. Freeze as soon as possible. Dry, sterile bottle (universal type) with a screw cap. Freeze as soon as possible. 22

23 TYPE OF EXHIBIT SAMPLING STORAGE Wet Bloodstains Allow stain to dry naturally. Do not accelerate drying. Avoid talking in the vicinity of the item as it dries. Note on the submission form any stains that were wet when items were obtained. If any item is still wet when submitted to the laboratory, inform Customer Services. If blood pattern analysis is not required, it may be preferable to collect the stain on a dry, sterile swab. Ensure a control swab is also taken from the unstained surrounding area. Place each individual item in a separate, suitable, properly sealed container, e.g. sealed polythene bag, stout paper sack, cardboard box, etc. Store in a cool, dry environment. Avoid the use of polythene bags, unless the item is to be frozen or it is still wet, in which case it must be frozen or transported to the laboratory as soon as possible. Return swabs immediately to appropriate swab sleeve/tube and seal. Freeze as soon as possible. Body Samples The Forensic Science Service Dry Blood (larger amounts) If possible, using a sterile disposable blade, cut away the surface bearing the bloodstain (such as wallpaper, plywood, fabric, etc). Leave an unstained area approximately 2-3cm around the stain. A non-stained piece of the surface material should be taken as a control before the bloodstain. Submit this control blank in a separate package. Place each individual item in a separate, suitable, properly sealed container, e.g. sealed polythene bag, stout paper sack, cardboard box, etc. Store in a cool, dry environment. Avoid the use of polythene bags, unless the item is to be frozen or it is still wet, in which case it must be frozen or transported to the laboratory as soon as possible. OR Scrape dry blood on to a sheet of paper using a sterile disposable blade. Return swabs immediately to appropriate swab sleeve/tube and seal. Freeze as soon as possible. Dry Blood (smaller amounts) Lightly moisten a sterile swab tip with sterile water. Swab the stain concentrating as much of the stain as possible on to a small area of the swab. Use small swabs for small stains. Return swabs immediately to appropriate swab sleeve/tube and seal. Freeze as soon as possible. 23

24 TYPE OF EXHIBIT SAMPLING STORAGE Dry Blood (smaller amounts) continued Blood on Moveable Items e.g. clothing, bedding, etc. N.B. before sampling, a blank control swab should be obtained from the same surface, near to, but not in contact with the blood. Where possible whole items should be submitted. If the stain is still damp, allow to dry naturally before packaging. Do not accelerate drying and take care to avoid contamination. Arrangements can be made for the submission of large items or for examination to take place at the scene or police station. Remember to note the position and orientation of items as this may be relevant to the scientist s examination and interpretation e.g. bedding. Note the orientation of clothing on an individual e.g. it may be inside-out, which should be checked before asking them to undress. Dry items should be submitted individually packaged in paper bags or sacks. Fold twice at the top and seal. Store in a cool, dry environment. Very heavy or damp stains should be masked when items are being folded for packaging. Care must be taken to avoid contamination or loss of evidence. If items cannot be dried, contact the laboratory and submit immediately in polythene bags. If wet items cannot be dried or submitted immediately to the laboratory, they should be stored frozen in polythene bags. Never store damp or wet items in polythene bags at ambient temperature. Take both scene and control samples to the laboratory AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. If a delay is unavoidable, store wet samples in a deep freeze. 2.3 Semen Semen Stains Submit the whole item to the laboratory if possible. If the stains are still wet, allow them to dry naturally before packaging. Do not accelerate drying and avoid talking over the item. Dry items should be packaged separately in sealed paper sacks, avoid the use of polythene bags unless the item is frozen. Clothing and other bagged items should be kept in a cool dry environment. Note any stains, which were wet when items were obtained, on the submission form and Medical Examination Forms. Small items e.g. tampons, sanitary towels, knickers should be frozen where possible. 24

25 TYPE OF EXHIBIT SAMPLING STORAGE Vaginal, Anal or Oral Swabs To maximise recovery of semen, multiple sterile swabs should be taken from each area with the exception of anal canal and the rectum - refer to guidelines provided in the Medical Examination Kit available from Scenesafe. Label swabs as to the order taken and the exact location of sampling. Oral samples should be collected as soon as possible. The Early Evidence Kit, available from Scenesafe, contains appropriate swabs. Return swabs immediately to appropriate swab sleeve/tube and seal. Freeze as soon as possible. Body Samples The Forensic Science Service Penile Swabs Sterile swabs should be moistened with sterile water before sampling. Label swabs as to order taken and exact location of sampling. Refer to guidelines provided in the Medical Examination Kit available from Scenesafe. Return swabs immediately to appropriate swab sleeve/tube and seal. Freeze as soon as possible. 25

26 TYPE OF EXHIBIT SAMPLING STORAGE Liquid Semen Liquid stains should be collected in a sterile container or using a sterile swab. If necessary, moisten swab with sterile water. Condoms should be sealed with a clip and handled with forceps. It may be possible to recover cellular material from the complainant from the outside of a condom e.g. saliva, vaginal material, blood, faeces. It may also be possible to recover fingerprints from the outer surface of a condom. If a condom is immersed in water e.g. a toilet bowl, retrieve using forceps. Do not decant liquid, secure contents using freezer clip and place in rigid container. Freeze as soon as possible in a sterile rigid container. Semen in Stomach Contents Include entire contents. Liquid and dried vomit staining should be recovered for identification of semen and drug testing. Dried stain - submit whole item if possible or cut out visible staining. Swab as last resort. Liquid stain - scrape from soiled surface with acetate sheet. Swab as last resort. Seek advice from Crime Scene Examiners on best method of recovery. Freeze as soon as possible in a sterile rigid container. Store stains as dried goods, freeze swabs, place in rigid container and freeze. With all body fluids avoid freeze/thaw/freeze situations 26

27 TYPE OF EXHIBIT SAMPLING STORAGE 2.4 Saliva Liquid Saliva (e.g. To establish the presence of semen or other evidential material). Do not allow the donor to wash out their mouth until ready for sampling. Collect about 10mls (approx. a dessert spoonful) of saliva from the donor. Collection of mouth rinse and swabs from around teeth and gums may also yield the presence of foreign fluid. Refer to guidelines provided in the Medical Examination Kit available from Scenesafe. Collect samples into a sterile 25mls wide mouthed universal bottle with screw cap. Do not use glass. Label with donor s name and date and time taken. Freeze samples and swabs as soon as possible. Body Samples The Forensic Science Service Saliva Stains Submit the whole item where possible. Allow to dry naturally before packaging. Do not accelerate drying. Avoid talking over the item and take care to avoid contamination. If stains are present on the body (i.e. kissing or biting), swab the area with a dry, sterile swab if the stain is visibly wet. If the area is dry use double swabbing technique - gently apply moist swab in a circular motion on the area followed by a dry swab applied in the same way. Double swabbing should also be used on grip marks, injuries etc. in alleged stranger assaults. Label swabs as to order taken and exact location of sampling. Small items should be stored frozen. Larger items should be placed separately into paper sacks and stored in a cool, dry environment. Return swabs immediately to appropriate swab sleeve/tube and seal. Freeze as soon as possible. 27

28 TYPE OF EXHIBIT SAMPLING STORAGE Cigarette Ends If transfer of the cigarette end to a property/vehicle is likely to be questioned (e.g. walked in on the bottom of shoe) store in a rigid container. Completely dry cigarette ends should be separately packaged in a polythene bag, paper bag or envelope. Store in a cool, dry environment. Wet or recently smoked cigarette ends should be placed in a sealed bag and frozen. Envelopes/Stamps Drinking Vessels Remove stamps, envelope seals or any other potential DNA evidence using a sterile disposable scalpel. Submit the liquid and the vessel if possible. Alternatively sterile swab around the rim of the vessel. Separately package in polythene bag, paper bag or envelope. Store in a cool, dry environment. Keep items containing liquids upright and ideally in their original container. If the latter cannot be readily and securely sealed, decant liquid into a sealable, sterile, plastic container and submit both this and the original container. Freeze any decanted liquid otherwise store in a cool dry environment. Return swabs to original tubes, label and freeze as soon as possible. Foodstuffs inc. chewing gum. Store in a sterile plastic container and freeze. 2.5 Hairs If possible, the whole item should be submitted so that hairs can be recovered in a controlled environment. Store in a cool, dry environment unless other body fluids are present that would require freezing. Loose hairs should be collected individually, unless in an obvious tuft. Seal in a polythene bag. Alternatively collect in a screwcapped vial. Store in a cool dry environment. Hairs recovered with visible root material must be packaged in a polythene bag only, not in a pre-folded paper packet. 28

29 TYPE OF EXHIBIT SAMPLING STORAGE 2.6 Faeces If possible, the whole stool should be submitted, although smears on items and clothing can also give results. Stains on immovable items should be cut from the surface with a sterile disposable blade, leaving an unstained area approximately 2-3cm around the stain. Large stains should be scraped using a sterile disposable blade. Otherwise stains can be swabbed with a sterile swab. Use sterile water if the swab needs to be moistened and remember to take and submit a control swab. In drugs cases the entire wrapping should be submitted. Place faecal stools or scrapings in a suitable sterile rigid plastic container. Return swabs immediately to appropriate swab sleeve/tube and seal. Freeze as soon as possible. Place wrappings that have passed through the body in a plastic sterile container. All faeces, swabs and wrappings should be frozen as soon as possible. Body Samples The Forensic Science Service 3. OTHER ITEMS 3.1 Deep Muscle/Bone Shaft including Marrow (or femur if available). If blood samples from the deceased prove problematic, tissue samples such as psoas muscle and bone marrow should also be taken as these may yield DNA in badly decomposed bodies. Tissue samples should be frozen in suitable, sealed sterile plastic containers. Do not put tissue in fixative or preservative. 3.2 Bones/Teeth If possible submit at least two teeth. Seal items in suitable sterile rigid plastic containers and freeze as soon as possible. 3.3 Fingernail Debris Due to the sensitivity of current DNA techniques, clippings are preferred to scrapings. If nails are too short swab for debris using fine pointed swabs. Use sealed nail clipper over prefolded paper packet. Seal in tamper evident bag or sterile plastic container. 29

30 TYPE OF EXHIBIT SAMPLING STORAGE 3.4 Parentage Testing (i) Cases where the person is alive e.g. criminal paternity, immigration cases. Buccal scrapes from both child and alleged relatives using Scenesafe DNA 2 Kit. Indicate on submission forms the alleged relationship between the relatives and child. Freeze. 3.4 Parentage Testing (ii) Terminations. a) Where termination occurs prior to 12 weeks following conception. Seize the entirety of the products of conception. a) Use a new screw cap, water tight, plastic container. Freeze. Do not use formalin or any other type of preservative. 3.4 Parentage Testing (iii) Identifying body. b) Where termination occurs after 12 weeks. Take a tissue sample from the aborted foetus, preferably deep muscle. Take post mortem tissue sample. If body is severely decomposed also take bone sample; consult laboratory for advice if necessary. b) Use a new screw cap, water tight, plastic container. Freeze. Do not use formalin or any other type of preservative. Freeze in suitable plastic container. Do not use formalin or any other type of preservative. 3.5 Nasal Secretions It is possible to obtain DNA from nasal secretions on tissues or clothing. Dry items should be placed in brown paper bags or sacks. Store in a cool, dry environment. Wet, damp items should be frozen, ideally in polythene bags. 3.6 Toilet Paper e.g. Recovered after complainant in a sexual assault case has visited the toilet. It may be possible to test toilet paper for DNA. Place in a rigid container and freeze. Body fluids (blood, semen, saliva, etc) deteriorate when stored wet or in liquid form at room temperature. Freezing is recommended for most samples. Refer to individual sections above. 30