NCJ Number
218659
Date Published
January 2005
Length
3 pages
Annotation
These recommendations developed by the Scientific Working Group for the Analysis of Seized Drugs address the minimum education, training, and experience required for analysts in laboratories that conduct analyses of seized drugs.
Abstract
The recommendations apply to any analyst who has independent access to unsealed evidentiary material for the purpose of removing samples for examination. They also apply to any employee who examines and analyzes seized drugs or related materials, or directs such examinations to be done, as well as any employee who signs reports on such examinations for court or investigative purposes. The recommendation on education requires that all future analysts hired have at least a bachelor degree in a natural science or in other sciences relevant to the analysis of seized drugs. The degree program should include lectures and associated laboratory classes in general, organic, and analytical chemistry. By January 1, 2005, all existing analysts without such a degree should have a minimum of 5 years of practical experience in seized drug analysis and demonstrated competency following the completion of a formal, documented training program and posttraining competency assessment. Recommendations also address continuing professional development. These recommendations are based in the requirement that all forensic scientists remain current in their field. Laboratories should facilitate this by providing support and opportunities for continuing professional development. Minimum requirements for analysts' continuing professional development are outlined. Minimum requirements for analysts' initial training allow laboratories to structure training programs that meet their needs according to type of casework done, analytical techniques used, available instrumentation, and trainees' level of preparedness. Recommendations are also offered regarding the types of reference material and documents that laboratories should make accessible to analysts.