WK73484 - New Practice for Reporting Results and Opinions of Explosives Analysis

Work Item

ASTM WK73484

New Practice for Reporting Results and Opinions of Explosives Analysis

1. Scope

1.1 This practice covers the information to be contained in formal report writing for the examination and analysis of intact explosives, post-blast explosive residues, and other material associated with explosive investigations. 1.2 This practice applies to the writing of explosives reports, which are not normally written in a full formal scientific format, but rather in a condensed format. 1.3 This practice establishes key elements for the reporting of these results that are informational, understandable, and suitable for both criminal and civil litigation. 1.4 This practice cannot replace knowledge, skills, or abilities acquired through education, training, and experience (E2917), and is to be used in conjunction with professional judgment by individuals with such discipline-specific knowledge, skills, and abilities. 1.5 This practice does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

Keywords

conclusions; explosives; explosive residue; forensic sciences; opinions; reports; results

Rationale

The OSAC Subcommittee for Fire Debris and Explosives has developed a new standard to guide an explosives analyst how to report results and opinions of the forensic examination and analysis of intact explosives, post-blast explosive residues, and other material associated with explosive investigations. There is currently no reporting results and opinions of explosives analysis document for intact explosives and post blast explosive residues that has been generated through a consensus process. This standard is intended to fill that void. It is anticipated that the standard will be used by practitioners, forensic students or trainees, and members of the court.

Details

Developed by Subcommittee: E30.13

Committee: E30

Staff Manager: Kevin Shanahan

Work Item Status

Date Initiated: 07-06-2020

Technical Contact: Michelle Evans

Item: 007

Ballot: E30.01 (20-05)