What should gloves be used for in forensic testing?

Gloves in forensic testing serve the critical role of preventing contamination. This is essential because any foreign substance or DNA introduced during the collection, handling, or processing of evidence can compromise the integrity of the forensic analysis. Contamination can lead to erroneous conclusions, affecting the chain of evidence and potentially impacting legal outcomes. Therefore, wearing gloves is a fundamental practice to ensure that the samples remain pure and that the results of the tests are reliable and valid.

In contrast, while gloves may provide some level of protection for specimens and assist with handling, the primary function is to safeguard against any external contamination. Keeping hands warm is not relevant to forensic testing; gloves are not designed for that purpose in this context.