Forensic Blood Kits: Setup & Operation

Forensic field blood collection kits are essential tools used by law enforcement and forensic experts to collect blood samples from crime scenes or accident sites. These kits are designed to ensure that biological evidence is collected, preserved, and transported securely for subsequent analysis in forensic labs.

Configuration of the Kit:

  1. Blood Collection Tubes: Sterile tubes designed for safe and efficient blood collection. These are often pre-treated with anticoagulants to preserve the sample.

  2. Lancets or Needles: Sterile, single-use lancets or needles to draw blood from the subject.

  3. Swabs and Pads: Alcohol swabs for cleaning the collection site and gauze for stopping bleeding post-sample collection.

  4. Sealable Bags and Labels: Used for secure storage and transport of samples, ensuring proper documentation and chain of custody.

  5. Transport Containers: Insulated, leak-proof containers to protect the sample during transport.

Operational Procedures:

  1. Preparation: Inspect the kit to ensure all items are sterile and intact. Wear protective gloves and ensure proper documentation is available for labeling.

  2. Collection: Clean the area to be sampled with an alcohol swab. Use a lancet to collect the blood, and immediately place the blood in the designated collection tube.

  3. Sealing and Labeling: After collecting the blood, seal the tube and label it with all required information, including the date, time, and case details.

  4. Storage: Store the sample in a cool, dry place if immediate transport is not possible, following the kit’s temperature guidelines.

  5. Transport: Transport the sample to the laboratory using the provided secure, leak-proof container, ensuring proper chain-of-custody procedures are followed.

Key Features:

  • Compact and Portable: Designed for use in the field, easy to carry and deploy at crime scenes or remote locations.

  • Sterile and Safe: Ensures clean collection to prevent contamination.

  • Secure Sample Handling: Includes everything needed for proper labeling, sealing, and transport of the collected sample.

Scope:
These kits are used in forensic science, law enforcement, accident investigation, and emergency response, providing reliable sample collection in field settings.

Maximizing DNA Recovery Efficiency in Field Kits

Maximizing DNA recovery efficiency in field kits ensures optimal DNA collection from crime scenes and investigations. These kits include high-efficiency swabs, protective tubes, and contamination-free packaging, all designed to recover maximum DNA from blood, saliva, hair, and touch samples. By using specialized protocols and materials, they preserve high-purity DNA for PCR, sequencing, and genotyping. These kits are ideal for field investigators, ensuring reliable, reproducible results even from trace, minimal, or degraded samples, while maintaining sample integrity in challenging conditions.

Key Features:

  • High-efficiency swabs for maximum DNA recovery

  • Contamination-free packaging for sample integrity

  • Suitable for PCR, sequencing, and genotyping

  • Effective for trace, minimal, or degraded samples

Application Scope:

  • Forensic crime scene and trace DNA collection

  • Field kit DNA collection and preservation

  • Cold-case investigations and laboratory research

  • Clinical and genetic studies