ASTM E3405-26

1.1 This practice covers training elements and program objectives for use by laboratory personnel responsible for training forensic science practitioners (FSPs) who will perform examinations and comparisons of fibers, fabric, rope, and cordage.

1.2 This practice outlines the tasks, goals, and objectives that allows the trainee to acquire the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities to independently perform casework.

1.3 This 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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

4.1 This practice details a fiber training program that identifies the information and guidelines necessary for preparing a trainee to become a qualified FSP. The trainee is under the direct supervision of a qualified FSP throughout their training. Upon successful completion of the program, a trained FSP is capable of independently performing appropriate examinations, interpreting analytical results, writing reports, and testifying in court.

4.2 This practice identifies a variety of microscopical and instrumental techniques that can be used in the laboratory’s training program for the analysis of fibers. Examples of microscopes and instruments used for fiber analysis include the polarized light microscope, comparison microscope, fluorescence microscope, Fourier-transform infrared spectrometer (FTIR), and microspectrophotometer (MSP).

4.3 Fabric or cordage samples can occasionally be evaluated for physical fits of edges. Physical fit comparisons are beyond the scope of this document. Additional training is required to conduct this type of analysis. Refer to Guide E3392, Standard Guide for Forensic Physical Fit Examination.

4.4 This practice provides the foundation for a comprehensive training program in the forensic examination of fibers. It is expected that an individual laboratory adapt the program to correspond with the instrumentation available and services offered at that laboratory.