In order to gain accreditation, every laboratory must have a superior quality assurance program. The keys to a successful program are the operational and technical manuals and associated documents which define the program and its various components. Written by experts with global experience in setting up laboratories, Implementing Quality in Laboratory Policies and Processes: Using Templates, Project Management, and Six Sigma provides templates for the various policies, procedures, and forms that should be contained in the quality assurance, operational, and technical manuals of a laboratory seeking accreditation.

Clandestine lab operators are not the mad scientists whose genius keeps them pent up in the laboratory contemplating elaborate formulas and mixing exotic chemicals. In fact, their equipment is usually simple, their chemicals household products, and their education basic. Most of the time the elements at the scene are perfectly legal to sell and own. It is only in the combination of all these elements that the lab becomes the scene of a criminal operation.

Chapter 3
Forensic Chemistry/Controlled Substances
Donnell Christian, BS

Forensic science has come a long way in the past ten years. It is much more in-depth and much broader in scope, and the information gleaned from any evidence yields so much more information than it had in the past because of incredible advances in analytic instruments and crucial procedures at both the crime scene and in the lab. Many practices have gone digital, a concept not even fathomed ten years ago. And from the first collection of evidence to its lab analysis and interpretation to its final presentation in court, ethics has become an overriding guiding principle. That’s why this new edition of this classic handbook is indispensable.

Basic Principles of Forensic Chemistry is designed to provide a clear and concise understanding of forensic chemistry.  The text begins with an introduction to the basic principles of chemistry and expands through organic chemistry into a forensic investigation.  The detailed chapters focus on both the theoretical and practical aspects of forensic chemistry with emphasis on controlled substance testing and identification.  Leading experts in the field contribute general examination techniques followed by applications to more specific models.  In addition, the text contains a comprehensive collection of information and data on controlled substances commonly encountered in forensic investigation including; detailed structural analysis, physical and physiological effects, functional group reactivity, and results of the analytical examination.  Also illustrated is arguably the greatest challenge to the forensic chemist: the investigation and processing of clandestine laboratory operations.  The Forensic Chemistry Laboratory Manual is included on a CD-ROM and contains a collection of practical exercises designed to support

theoretical principles covered in the text.  This provides the student with valuable hands-on experience while adding clarity and continuity to the topics of discussion.

Essential and comprehensive, Basic Principles of Forensic Chemistry provides the fundamental knowledge required for a rewarding journey into the field of forensic chemistry.

• Complements the training manual Forensic Investigation of Clandestine Laboratories
• Provides a concise guide for use in the field
• Offers worksheets that can be used to document crime scenes
• Features appropriate safety equipment for examing clandestine laboratories
• Presents quick reference toxicology tables including symptoms and target organs

Summary

The key to clandestine laboratory detection is the investigator’s ability to recognize the equipment and chemicals that constitute the lab. This requires a ready reference that clearly explains how to identify the hazards, provides the proper measures for safely addressing them, and features a format that allows the information to be taken directly into the field for quick reference and easy access.

Field Guide to Clandestine Laboratory Identification and Investigation provides concise information for field use along with reproducible worksheets for crime scene investigators. As the companion to the training manual Forensic Investigation of Clandestine Laboratories, this guide features visual representations of the scientific equipment used to clandestinely produce drugs and explosives. It presents a list of the chemicals commonly encountered in clandestine laboratories and includes information about chemical hazards and the personal protective equipment required. The book also discusses proper processing of the lab site for the physical evidence necessary for prosecution.

Providing the methods and materials necessary to successfully identify clandestine lab activity in the field, this guide belongs in the hands of anyone involved in the investigation, examination, and prosecution of clandestine labs. Crime scene technicians, emergency responders, forensic scientists, law enforcement personnel, and attorneys will reach for this valuable resource time and time again.

The Clandestine Drug & Terrorist Lab First Responder and Investigation Guide consolidates the information emergency responders routinely use to identify, mitigate and abate the hazards associated with clandestine labs. It is a ready reference for individuals who may encounter clandestine labs that manufacture drugs, explosives, or chemical weapons during the course of their duties. This guide DOES NOT replace the requirements outlined in 29 CFR 1910.120, and its appendices, for those individuals who are required to handle the hazardous chemicals and situations encountered at a clandestine lab. The Drug & Terrorist Guide First Responder and Investigation Guide is a spiral bound 6″ x 9″ reference printed on heavy cardstock with laminated front and back covers. The guide includes color and black and white pictures and tables with 1. Instructions for clandestine lab site control. 2. Clandestine use tables 3. Clandestine lab manufacturing methods table 4. Chemical weapons tables 5. Clandestine lab manufacturing equipment and IED components 6. Scene processing assessment and handling instructions 7. And More!