Forensics accreditation: supporting the criminal justice system through the accreditation of testing, examination and scene of crime activity
UKAS is at the leading edge in the provision of accreditation across a broad range of examination and testing activities within the forensic science sector. UKAS accreditation determines the technical competence and impartiality of forensic organisations delivering testing and inspection services to the Criminal Justice System.
UKAS continues to support the expansion of quality standards within forensic science, working closely with the Forensic Science Regulator and undertaking the assessment of forensic units against the additional requirements included within the Forensic Science Regulators Codes of Practice and Conduct. This further improves confidence in the evidence being presented to the Criminal Justice System.
UKAS accredits activities undertaken within the forensic unit under ‘ISO/IEC 17025-General requirements for the competence of testing and calibration laboratories’. Areas currently accredited by UKAS include Fingerprint Comparison, Marks Enhancement, Body Fluid Recovery, DNA Analysis, Digital Forensics, Toxicology, and Firearms Examination. Accreditation determines the competence of staff, the validity and suitability of methods, the appropriateness of equipment and facilities, and the ongoing assurance through internal quality control.
Scene of crime examination is accredited under ‘ISO/IEC 17020: Requirements for the operation of various types of bodies performing inspection’. Assessments include the manner in which scene strategies are set, anti-contamination measures are employed, the handling and integrity of items recovered, staff competence, suitability of equipment and facilities, and the fitness for purpose of any testing undertaken as part of the inspection.
Further information
To read the updated Guidance on the Approach for Volume Scene of Crime Assessments technical bulletin click here
