ABSTRACT
This chapter proposes means and methods of protecting the forensic examiner/assistant from contamination or infection emanating from the living/deceased individual. Every examinee should be considered potentially chemically, virally, or bacterially contaminated or infectious, particularly since the era of terrorism. There is also the possibility of radioisotope contamination from the use of a ‘‘dirty bomb.’’ The simple act of photographing or recording a person/body’s condition can lead to contamination issues. Airborne pathogens such as anthrax or those causing severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) can be transferred from examinee to equipment to ultimately be inhaled or absorbed by third parties. Hepatitis B and C, human immunodeficiency viruses (HIV), and other pathogenic diseases can be present with no obvious outward signs. Suggestions incorporating decontamination measures for various tools/equipment required in forensic procedures are discussed. Self-protection is a prime consideration in the examination. The ultimate goal is to obtain the necessary information, photographs, examination, specimen, etc., free of contamination and infection. Prevention of cross-contamination is another objective. In case of an exposure to nuclear materials from a dirty bomb, the site would have to be secured and the resultant casualties decontaminated prior to being brought to either a morgue or a hospital. If the morgue is in the area of exposure or is heavily exposed to nuclear material, a temporary morgue would have to be set up in an uncontaminated area. Proper procedures for decontamination of facilities, personnel, and bodies must be followed and procedures should be in place for these procedures.
