Forensic Science Laboratories: Handbook for Facilities Planning, Design, Construction, and Relocation

• NCJ Number: 242956
• Date Published: June 2013
• Length: 98 pages
• Agencies: NIJ-Sponsored; National Institute of Standards and Technology
• Publication Type: Technical Assistance; Instructional Material (Programmed)

Annotation

This first update of the "Forensic Science Laboratories: Handbook for Facility Planning, Design, Construction, and Relocation" since its original publication in 1998 preserves its original intent and builds on its content to reflect the advances and current focus within the forensic science and facility construction industries.

Abstract

The handbook provides laboratory directors, designers, consultants, and other stakeholders with guidance and tools to increase their knowledge of the project delivery process, their roles within that process, and their awareness of pertinent considerations. The handbook's three primary objectives related to forensic science laboratory projects are to maximize organizational efficiency; ensure the economical expenditure of resources; and develop a safe, secure, and well-designed facility. The handbook explains the laboratory director's role at each phase of the project life cycle, describes the impact of major decisions, and enables users to ask the right question at the right time. In addition, the handbook builds upon the original three objectives. Each section of the handbook is composed of project team roles and responsibilities within the particular process, process diagrams and narrative descriptions, tools to support each phase, and an actions checklist. The life cycle of securing new laboratory space follows four key phases: planning, design, construction, and relocation. A chapter is provided for each phase. Appendixes contain standards, regulations, and other guidance; laboratory design considerations; contract and procurement type; cost considerations; needs assessment; key activities checklists; and relocation activities checklists.