What is required for specimens stored for forensic testing?

For specimens stored for forensic testing, maintaining a comprehensive record of all handling is crucial. This documentation serves multiple purposes: it ensures the chain of custody, provides an audit trail for the specimens, and helps uphold the integrity of the evidence. A detailed log includes information on who collected the sample, any transfers of the specimen, and the conditions under which it was stored.

In forensic contexts, the reliability and credibility of evidence are paramount. If there is no record of all handling, it can lead to questions about the authenticity and integrity of the samples, potentially compromising legal proceedings. Therefore, rigorous documentation practices are essential in forensic testing to prevent contamination, tampering, or misinterpretation of results.