A forensic expert of the International Commission for Missing Persons works with DNA evidence.
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A forensic expert of the International Commission for Missing Persons works with DNA evidence. See more forensics pictures.

When there is a murder, suspicious fire or hit-and-run accident, police and rescue workers aren't the only ones in on the investigation. Forensic scientists also play an important part. They will take samples collected at the scene and analyze them in a forensics laboratory. With a little ingenuity and some very high-tech equipment, forensic scientists can help law enforcement catch even the wiliest perpetrator.

Forensic science is a discipline that applies scientific analysis to the justice system, often to help prove the events of a crime. Forensic scientists analyze and interpret evidence found at the crime scene. That evidence can include blood, saliva, fibers, tire tracks, drugs, alcohol, paint chips and firearm residue.

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­Using scientific equipment, forensic scientists identify the components of the samples and match them up. For example, they may determine that a paint chip found on a hit-and-run accident victim came off a '96 Ford Mustang convertible, a fib­er found at a murder scene belonged to an Armani jacket or a bullet was fired from a Glock G24 pistol.

How do forensic scientists turn even the tiniest clues into real evidence that can help track down criminals? What are the latest technologies being used today in forensics labs? Find out next.

Forensic Lab Safety
The job of a forensic scientist involves using a variety of chemicals, which can be flammable, corrosive and even explosive if not handled properly. Here are a few tips that forensic labs follow to ensure that their employees stay safe:
  • Labs should have procedures in place for the use and disposal of chemicals, as well as a safety plan in case of emergency (including a safety shower and eyewash station).
  • Employees need to be well-trained in the use of all chemicals, understanding the properties of each chemical and its potential to cause injury.
  • Lab technicians should wear the proper gear -- eyewear to protect against chemical splashes and gloves to protect their hands.
  • Chemical containers should be properly labeled with the correct chemical name.
  • Flammable liquids should always be kept in special storage containers or a storage room. Putting these types of chemicals in a regular refrigerator can lead to an explosion.
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