7.0. Analytical Procedures
The analysis of unknown trace evidence can be accomplished by a variety of methods. Nondestructive tests should be performed first. Limited sample size, the possibility of future analyses, and other limitations should be considered before destructive tests are performed. Appropriate reference samples or collections must be authenticated. Refer to established published procedures.
The laboratory’s quality control guidelines should contain specific protocols to assess critical parameters in normal operations. Instruments must be routinely monitored to ensure that performance is maintained and documented. Instrumentation used in the analysis of trace evidence must be tested with reference standards, when appropriate, to ensure that the instruments are performing adequately.
Documentation must be maintained to create an audit trail that can be reviewed. Documentation must contain sufficient information to allow a technical peer to evaluate case notes and interpret the data.