1. Scope

2. Scope 2.1The primary purpose of this Standard Practice is to facilitate the development and implementation of training programs in crime laboratories or other such analytical entities that participate in the detection, analysis, and classification of primer GSRA particles. 2.2This Standard Practice provides a summary of the knowledge and skills that shall be demonstrated and documented to establish competency as an independent primer GSR analyst and shall be used in conjunction with the laboratorys existing training protocols and standard operating procedures. It is intended as a standard for use by laboratory personnel responsible for training GSR analysts to prepare them to perform examinations using SEM/EDS to analyze samples for the presence primer GSR. 2.3The document is intended to be used exclusively by experts in the field of Forensic Science who have met their laboratorys technical requirements to be assigned to the role of trainer in the Category of Testing that deals with the detection, analysis, and classification of primer GSR particles. 2.4This document contains relevant suggested reading assignments and structured exercises for hands-on practical experience for the trainee. 2.4.1Additional sources of information on primer GSR examination, not specifically mentioned in this manual, should be considered, added, or substituted. A review of new sources of information on general forensic methods and forensic GSR examinations should be carried out on a regular basis (e.g., annually or biannually) to incorporate well-established current findings and methods into the training program and to replace any outdated methods. 2.4.2When possible, additional training beyond that which is listed here should be made available to the trainee. Such training might include off-site short courses, short internships, and specialized training by experienced examiners. Additional training will provide a primer GSR examiner the opportunity to remain current in the field. 2.4.3This guide focuses on the SEM/EDS examination of samples which potentially contain primer GSR particles. 2.5This document sets out lessons, practical exercises, and methods of progress monitoring and trainee evaluation designed to be incorporated into an individual laboratorys training program. Topics for discussion shall occur between the trainee and the trainer or designee. 2.6A training program shall provide a theoretical foundation and basic practical skills to prepare a trainee to become a fully qualified forensic primer GSR examiner. At the end of the training program, the trainee, under direct supervision of a fully qualified examiner, shall be capable of interpreting results, forming opinions, and presenting and explaining evidence based upon sound scientific knowledge, proper examinations, and practical experience. 2.7This training guide is intended to complement the SWGGSR Guide for Primer Gunshot Residue Analysis by Scanning Electron Microscopy/Energy Dispersive X-Ray Spectrometry 11-29-11 (www.swggsr.org). 2.8This standard 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

gunshot residue; GSR; training; SEM-EDS

Rationale

The standard will provide an outline of goals for a comprehensive training program in primer gunshot residue (GSRA) analysis by scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive x-ray spectrometry (SEM/EDS. The standard would be used by a forensic analysts in Federal, state, and local forensic laboratories in training to perform GSR examinations.

The title and scope are in draft form and are under development within this ASTM Committee.