To help the criminal justice system function smoothly and responsibly, law enforcement agencies depend on forensic science for evidence collection and analysis. Forensic scientists use powerful tools and advanced technologies to solve mysteries and find the actual culprit. They perform various tasks in this endeavor, from crime scene investigation to DNA testing. However, these jobs can be conducted only in a well-equipped laboratory. The lab should facilitate identifying and quantifying unknown substances like drugs and comparing fingermarks obtained from a crime scene. All these activities eventually culminate into successful investigative and crime scene evidence.

Nevertheless, it is essential to note that the timeliness of investigations and suspect information is crucial. Any business’s performance is evaluated based on quality, service, and cost. Since most forensic labs are government-run, the price factor is almost ruled out from the equation. Quality may also not be a very critical aspect. However, forensic service is essential for forensic labs to be recognized. Quick analysis and turn-around time make them more popular. Almost all forensic labs try to work on urgent cases. Yet, the growing number of uncompleted cases delays their response time. How do you address this issue? While multiple things need to be implemented, investing in the right forensic lab equipment can be an ideal beginning for them.

You can be at an advantage if you maintain a good inventory of forensic lab tools and devices. However, you must know what type of lab equipment sees high demand in forensic investigations. It will help you make the correct choices. In this context, let’s explore some critical options and their applications in crime scene and forensic investigations.

Forensic Laboratory Tools and Devices

A well-planned lab will have proper equipment for evidence collection, fingerprinting, substance handling, etc.

• Fuming Chambers for Collection

Crime scene evidence is collected with the help of unique fuming methods that reveal latent fingermarks on porous and non-porous surfaces. They also keep operators safe from the hazardous impact of the fumes. These unique systems are easy to install, enabling forensic labs to reduce their processing time. These fuming chambers contain various components that lead to quick fingerprint fuming in a compact unit. Some can heat the superglue or CA adhesive efficiently. Polycarbonate chambers offer excellent shatter resistance. You can also find them equipped with carbon filters to trap and exhaust the unwanted smoke from the workspace.

Interestingly, these fuming chambers are available in options like cyanoacrylate fuming chambers, Ninhydrin and DFO chambers, Quad CA fuming chambers, and water filtration CA fuming chambers. Each plays a significant role in fingerprinting. A cyanoacrylate fuming chamber allows investigators to conduct a super glue cyanoacrylate vaporization process before dye stains or powders are applied. This method is suitable for non-porous surfaces where objects face cyanoacrylate vapors. Fumes or vapors stick to the existing latent prints, giving a clear view under the appropriate light source.

Ninhydrin and DFO chambers can be needed when dealing with porous surfaces like glass. Chemicals like Ninhydrin and DFO cause the fingermarks to appear on the surfaces. While Ninhydrin turns latent prints purple colored, DFO makes them glow. Likewise, a Quad CA Fuming Chamber can be useful in the forensic lab. While most of its functions match a typical CA fuming chamber, A Quad model enables investigators to handle several evidence materials in one go in their different compartments. These chambers maintain excellent airflow to ensure proper fuming in the large space.

• Evidence Drying Cabinets for Evidence Processing

Evidence drying hoods or cabinets are safe, ventilated chambers where investigators can store, dry, and process wet evidence in a regulated environment. They ensure the integrity of the evidence by safeguarding them from contaminant risks. Even lab personnel feel safe around this. The cabinets offer consistent airflow to remove moisture from the evidence. Their advanced filtration systems make the work environment safer for various applications. One equipped with UV lights can be most sought-after for its disinfection ability. You can consider their construction material, dimension, filter type, and other features during shopping. A cabinet with HEPA and carbon filters can handle both biohazards and odors. Hence, it can be worth considering this factor.

• Fume Hoods for Evidence Processing

This equipment is found in many labs because it protects personnel from aerosols and chemical fumes in the workspace. Some models can exhaust fumes outside the lab, and others are ductless options with powerful filters. If you buy a ductless model, ensure it has some essential features, such as a touchscreen display, VOC sensor, airflow alarm, LED lighting, air velocity control, front opening, sufficient filtration systems, etc.

• Opioid Evidence Handling Chamber for Substance Handling

These highly efficient enclosure designs can trap hazardous materials and safeguard people from airborne particles. They make it easy to handle injurious drugs during testing and analysis. Because they offer adequate ventilation in the workspace, storing essential items or materials also feels easy. A good chamber of this type will have some vital characteristics. It can be built with dual filtration, a vacuum system, and more.

Additional info:

Forensic lab tools and devices can be wide-ranging, including general lab items like fume hoods and unique forensic analysis equipment like cyanoacrylate fuming chambers for fingerprint identification. When investing in any of them for a forensic lab, paying attention to the equipment cost and maintenance requirements is necessary. You must also consider run time. Most forensic labs face backlog issues due to a shortage of personnel. However, a lab can increase its productivity and response time by choosing faster and automated systems that provide accurate results.

Fortunately, forensic science has grown exponentially due to easy access to advanced technologies. Some options have changed the working dynamics in terms of analysis capabilities. Whether the task involves dealing with latent prints, drug chemistry, or something else, you can search and pick products that suit the lab environment and research purposes. Also, focus on niche brands for reliability and quality. Well-recognized products can cost a little more, but you can be sure about their performance and authenticity. These will be safer for evidence as well as personnel. Just read product details thoroughly to understand their features. It will allow you to choose highly functional equipment for your needs.