ABSTRACT
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4.1.1 Design
The great American architect Frank Lloyd Wright is quoted as having said, “Form follows function.” Before designing a structure or workspace, there should be familiarity with the functions that are to be undertaken. The layout of the rooms, hallways, and storage spaces within a building should be intimately dependent on the work occurring in those areas. The flow of personnel through the facility as they utilize distinct workspaces must be considered in the design. Tasks are not necessarily confined to one area of a building. For a forensic laboratory, this axiom is especially true. The designer must realize that there will be a semi-public area near the entrance to the laboratory. A secure evidence intake area with an even more secure evidence storage area must be planned. Security must also be considered in the design of the evidence preparation and testing areas. The workspace, where analysts will review information and create reports, must be functional as well as comfortable for the employee. Knowledge of the key factors regarding the techniques, equipment, and instrumentation is essential for design of the workspace.
