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Quality Assurance Guide for the Forensic Analysis of Ignitable Liquids

NCJ Number
218448
Date Published
April 2006
Length
8 pages
Annotation
These guidelines--which were developed by the Fire Laboratory Standards and Protocols Committee of the Scientific/Technical Working Group for Fire and Explosions--provide a framework for quality management in the processing of fire debris evidence, including evidence handling, management practices, qualitative analysis, and reporting.
Abstract
The guidelines pertain to the analysis of samples suspected of containing ignitable liquids or their residues, and they are intended to be used as a framework for the development and assessment of a quality assurance program. Following a catalog of definitions of terms used in the guidelines, six guidelines address the features of the physical plant (laboratory) in which the analyses will be conducted. The guidelines provide for the safe storage of physical evidence, reference materials, and records, as well as the prevention of contamination. Four guidelines pertain to laboratory personnel. They address job descriptions for specified personnel, qualifications/education for various personnel, training, and professional development/maintaining qualifications. A 12-part guideline addresses quality manual documentation. Eight guidelines focus on evidence control, and two guidelines for analytical procedures pertain to the analysis of ignitable liquids and the maintenance and classification of reference ignitable liquids. Other guidelines address instrumentation; technical and administrative review; chemicals, reagents, and supplies; proficiency and competency testing; verification and validation; laboratory audits; deficiency of analysis; and health and safety.