Recovery of Material from the Scene of an Explosion and Its Subsequent Forensic Laboratory Examination—A Team Approach

An explosion, whether accidental or intentional, typically results in serious damage to property and harm to people. Rather than the well-rounded investigative expertise of a Sherlock Holmes, explosion investigations require personnel highly experienced in postblast investigation representing a variety of highly specialized disciplines. As the investigation moves from the scene to the laboratory, additional experienced forensic expertise will be required. ›is chapter discusses the team approach to the investigation of the scene of an explosion from the perspective of a forensic scientist, and then looks further at the application of a team approach to the laboratory aspects of an investigation.