Investigator's guide to National Forensic Laboratory Services

A guide for investigators on how to collect, preserve and submit evidence to the RCMP's National Forensic Laboratory Services (NFLS).

Table of contents

Contact information

Forensic Assessment Centre

To request a forensic service for biology, firearms, toxicology and/or trace evidence, you must first contact the Forensic Assessment Centre (FAC) for authorization before you can submit an exhibit.

Hours:

Monday to Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. (EST/Ottawa)

Telephone:

1-866-677-5227

Fax:

1-877-243-5047

Email:

FAC-CEJ@rcmp-grc.gc.ca

National Anti-Counterfeiting Bureau

For exhibits related to counterfeit, send exhibits to:

National Anti-Counterfeiting Bureau
NPS Building
73 Leikin, Ottawa ON K1A 0R2

Hours:

Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. (EST/Ottawa)

Telephone:

613-993-0664

Email:

NACB@rcmp-grc.gc.ca

About this guide

This guide assists police investigators with the collection, preservation, and shipping of physical evidence to the RCMP's National Forensic Laboratory Services (NFLS), which operates as a single public laboratory system with three sites located across Canada.

In addition to providing investigators with general information, this guide provides examples of some common exhibit types that are submitted to the different forensic service areas at NFLS – biology (DNA), toxicology, trace, counterfeit, and firearms. There could be other types of evidence not identified in this guide.

Basic guidelines and techniques

Collection

Local forensic identification service units may be called upon to assist with the collection of evidence. They have the proper tools and their members have undergone specialized training to ensure evidence is collected properly and safely. The following are some general guides, tips and best practices that can be used by investigators should forensic identification members not be available to assist.

Common tools and supplies for collecting evidence

Always use gloves and a mask

Common tools and supplies for collecting evidence
Tool Generally used for Additional information
Disposable scalpels
  • cutting stains from larger exhibits
  • scraping paint samples from vehicles (e.g. hit-and-run incidents)
  • if disposable tools are not available, rinse non-disposable tools between each use with alcohol or distilled water
Disposable tweezers and forceps
  • collecting small items (hair, building product particles, cigarette butts, etc.)
  • DO NOT use metal tools on ammunition components
Disposable lancet
  • collecting known DNA samples from individuals onto collection cards
  • found in the RCMP's DNA Warrant/Consent Collection Kits (blue bags)
  • commercially available or from medical practitioner
Sterile swabs
  • collecting biological samples (e.g. blood, saliva, skin cells)
  • soaking up liquid such as gasoline at an arson scene
  • it is preferable to use sterile, cotton swabs that are individually wrapped within a re-sealable paper or plastic sleeve
  • when collecting non-biological evidence, a best practice is to also submit an unused "control" swab (preferably from the same lot)
Sexual Assault Evidence Kits (SAEKs)
  • SAEKs are used to assist with the collection of evidence associated with sexual assaults – evidence is collected by trained health care professionals
  • police can submit requests for forensic analysis regardless of whether it is part of a SAEK
  • SAEKs are generally sealed by the health care practitioner when handed over to police
  • ensure the health care professional that is collecting the evidence provides you with a list of all the samples/exhibits in the SAEK because you will need to list all items on the request form (C-414) when submitting for analysis (alternatively, you may break the seal in order to itemize the available exhibits)
Forensic Blood Collection Kit
  • used for toxicological analysis of blood (e.g. cases of impaired driving)
  • contains two grey-stoppered vacuum tubes with a white powder that acts as preservative and anticoagulant
  • The RCMP has a kit and it is also available commercially
DNA Warrant/Consent Collection Kit (blue bag)
  • used for collecting known DNA samples for comparison purposes
  • there are three DNA Warrant/Consent Collection Kits:
    • Blood Sample
    • Buccal Sample
    • Hair Sample
  • DNA Warrant/Consent Collection Kits are not to be used for submission of samples to the National DNA Data Bank
  • blood samples are preferred for biology (DNA) analysis, followed by buccal (mouth swab) and then, hair.
  • the RCMP's DNA Warrant/Consent Collection Kits are available to all police agencies, however, over versions are available by alternate service providers (the RCMP kits are identifiable by the blue bag used)
Convicted Offender DNA Database Sample Collection Kit (clear bag)
  • used to collect DNA samples from convicted offenders
  • specifically designed for the collection of DNA samples from convicted offenders
  • identifiable by the clear bag used
  • these are the only kits that will accepted by the National DNA Data Bank (NDDB) of Canada
  • to obtain these kits, contact the NDDB
Leak proof urine collection cup
  • used for toxicological analysis of urine (e.g. cases of impaired driving)
  • commercially available or from medical practitioner
Gunshot Residue (GSR) Kit
  • collecting GSR samples from persons suspected of recently discharging a firearm
  • collecting samples from objects suspected as having been exposed to a source of GSR, but cannot be easily submitted to the laboratory for analysis (e.g. a motor vehicle)
  • contains instructions, a collection form, and two boxes each containing a pair of disposable gloves, a label to re-seal the box after use, and two sample vials (also known as stubs)
  • obtain samples as soon possible after the shooting
  • do not collect GSR samples if the exhibit has been authorized for GSR testing at NFLS
  • complete the GSR Kit form at the time of sampling
  • include the GSR Kit collection form with your submission request by either sending the original along with the GSR Kit or sending an electronic copy by email with your Request for Analysis form (C-414)
  • contact the NFLS Forensic Assessment Center to receive a GSR Kit
FTA collection card or Whatman 31 ET filter paper
  • collecting blood or buccal (mouth swab) samples from known individuals
  • the FTA Collection Card is found in the RCMP's DNA Warrant/Consent Collection Kit (blue bags)
  • Whatman filter papers are commercially available
Hemastix test strips
  • allows you to screen for the presence of blood
  • identifies if blood may be present, either human or animal
  • the strip should not come into direct contact with the material that is being collected
  • advise the NFLS Forensic Assessment Centre (FAC) if the Hemastix stip came in direct contact with an exhibit, stained surface or swab (so that FAC directs the exhibit to the appropriate area for DNA analysis)

Handling exhibits

Personal safety

Crime scenes and handling exhibits can be dangerous. Minimize exposure to infectious disease, hazardous drugs, and reduce the risk of contaminating the evidence by always wearing gloves and a mask when handling exhibits, including when you are collecting, packaging or shipping evidence. When finished, remove gloves and wash thoroughly with soap and hot water. Eye protection and other personal protection is also advised.

Avoid contaminating exhibits

Keep exhibits that need to be examined completely separate from each other, from different scenes, and from Comparison samples. Wear gloves at all times, changing them frequently (e.g. between exhibits and different areas of a crime scene). Avoid excessive handling of exhibits. Use a clean tool for each exhibit being processed. Use disposable tools such as scalpels whenever possible. Alternatively, clean all scissors and forceps thoroughly with alcohol between uses. Always package exhibits separately in clean bags or containers that will not leak, break or open. If accidental contamination is suspected, please inform the NFLS Forensic Assessment Centre at the time of your submission.

Fingerprinting

Fingerprinting is not a service provided by NFLS and is the responsibility of the investigator and agency. Your local forensic identification unit may provide this service or assist you in determining if the surface of the item is suitable for fingerprinting. Also, when conducting fingerprinting, avoid excessive handling of the exhibit, even while wearing gloves. Please note that if the exhibit requires both fingerprinting and other forensic services at NFLS, there is a recommended order and workflow. For example, fingerprinting and swabbing for DNA analysis are normally done prior to submitting firearm-related exhibits for firearm testing and examination. Contact the Forensic Assessment Centre for further guidance.

Large and small exhibits

For larger exhibits with visible staining that cannot be submitted to NFLS (e.g. bed mattress, large carpet), the stains of interest may be cut out when required. Using a sterile disposable scalpel, carefully cut out the area of interest ensuring to leave a sufficient border around the stain. When collecting truly small particles, such as hair or paint chips, it is best to fold them in a piece of paper and seal in an envelope or plastic bag.

Swabbing protocols for DNA

Danger
  • DO NOT swab knives or other items used on a person as a weapon. Properly package and submit any items used to cause injury or bodily harm directly to NFLS. If the object is too large, call the Forensic Assessment Centre (FAC) for more information.
  • DO NOT swab clothing items or fabric, chewing gum, or cigarette butts as the DNA is difficult to recover. Properly package these exhibits and submit to NFLS.
Proceed
  • OK to swab all property crimes
  • OK to swab other offences with exhibits that cannot be easily submitted to NFLS and are expected to have ONE source of DNA (one person)
  • OK to swab blood, saliva or skin cells that are believed to be left on an exhibit (with the exception of fabric, chewing gum, or cigarette butts.
Warning
  • Fingerprint before swabbing since fingerprints may be wiped out during swabbing. Standard fingerprint technology does not interfere with analysis at NFLS, however, over handling the item may remove biological material.

Investigators may be required to collect biological samples for DNA analysis. Such material can be wet (e.g. a pool of blood), dry (e.g. dried blood stain on a carpet), visible (e.g. white stain, possible saliva/semen) or not visible (e.g. skin cells). In these situations, there are various collection methods available and different areas to swab that allow the highest potential to recover a DNA profile. Objects that have been handled by multiple individuals (door knobs or telephone receivers) are not recommended for forensic DNA analysis as they rarely yield useable information. See Figure 1: Common examples of some areas to swab that provide the highest potential of DNA recovery.

What is needed for swabbing
  • Cotton sterile swabs (ensure they are not expired) should be individually wrapped in paper or plastic. Some swabs have a plastic cap or tubes that allow the swab to dry within the package.
  • Disposable gloves
  • Mask that covers your nose and mouth
  • Sterile or distilled water preferably in a dropper bottle. If unavailable use bottled water.
How to swab
  • Wear mask and gloves, changing gloves between exhibits.
  • If swabbing at a location other than where the exhibit was seized, use a clean surface (e.g. clean with bleach). Considering covering the work area with clean durable paper.
  • Use one swab per area or stain (i.e. do not use two swabs for the same area/stain).
  • Swabbing a wet area (e.g. pool of blood, foods or other wet items): collect the DNA using a dry cotton sterile swab.
  • Swabbing a dry area (e.g. dried blood stain on carpet, tools, utensils, etc.):
    • With an eye dropper, dampen one side of a clean sterile swab with 1 or 2 drops of sterile or distilled water. DO NOT saturate. If distilled or sterile water is not available, use bottled or tap water.
    • Swab the area using the damp side first. Then, turn the swab over and swab the same area with the dry side.
  • Apply reasonable pressure when swabbing so that enough material is collected (particularly if the surface is textured). The swab should remain intact.
  • Avoid collecting excessive dirt/debris on the swab.
  • Dry and label appropriately.
Storing and drying swabs
  • DO NOT store moist swabs in airtight containers such as plastic bags or closed tubes. Moisture can lead to the growth of mold and bacteria which may limit the ability to obtain a DNA profile.
  • Some swabs come in self-drying containers so it is acceptable to return the damp swab to its container. DO NOT put container in a plastic bag.
  • When in doubt, or for swabs that require drying prior to packaging:
    • Use a drying cabinet or area with good ventilation where the swabs will not be touched or disturbed (to prevent contamination)
    • Ensure they are kept with their packaging to prevent mix ups
What to swab (and not to swab)

Following are some common exhibits showing what areas to swab that provide the highest potential of DNA recovery. In cases where an item is used as a weapon, DO NOT swab – send it "as is" to NFLS. More detailed information about the collection process for each of these exhibits is provided in the next section on collection and packaging "by exhibit type."

Figure 1: Common examples of some areas to swab that provide the highest potential of DNA recovery

DO NOT SWAB if item was used as a weapon and blood is thought to be present

Where to swab firearms and ammunition.
A handgun should be swabbed along the textured part of the handle or grip, the trigger and the safety area. A shotgun should be swabbed along the grip, trigger, and slide action. Use one swab for grip, one swab for slide/action, one for trigger/trigger guard/safety.

for possession and charges related to unsafe storage, use one swab to swab the grip and slide/action

DO NOT swab a firearm such as a handgun or a shotgun that has caused death or bodily harm. Submit the firearm as is to NFLS.

DO NOT swab if the firearm was used as a weapon causing injury or death. Submit the firearm "as is" to NFLS

Use one swab per group of cartridge casings or bullets of the same caliber found in close proximity.

use one swab per group of cartridges casings or bullets of the same caliber found in close proximity

Where to swab tools. Swab the area that is touched most often.
Swab objects such as hammers, pry bars, and screwdrivers along areas that are commonly used to hold the object. In the case of a hammer, this is along the wooden base. For a screwdriver, this is around the textured grip and for a pry bar this is normally the curved end.
Used disposable gloves found at a crime scene should be swabbed along the area where contact with skin has been made. This includes the inside part of the glove as well as the outside rim and palm of the glove. Use one swab inside the glove, and one swab outside the glove.

use one swab to swab inside glove, and use a separate swab to swab outside glove

If used as a handled object (e.g. pry tool), a knife should be swabbed in the area where it has been handled. For example, swab the handle and not the blade.

swab knife if used as a handled object (e.g. pry tool)

DO NOT swab knives or other tools/items if they are used as a weapon on a person. For example, do not swab knives with blood on them.

DO NOT swab knife or other tools/items if used as a weapon on a person

Swab anything large (e.g. floor wall, window glass, furniture). Use one swab per stain.
In cases where blood or other biological material is found on a large smooth surface, such as a wooden floor, swab that area for biological evidence.

blood on floor

In cases where blood or other biological material is found on a large smooth surface, such as a window, swab that area for biological evidence.

glass with blood on it

DO NOT swab for blood or for other biological material when it is found on a cloth jacket, carpeted area or other fabric surface.

DO NOT swab fabric, textiles, clothing

Where to swab drinking containers, utensils and food – swab the area that may have saliva on it.

When swabbing food items, freeze the item first, if possible

A plastic bottle should be swabbed along the drinking spout and around the inside rim of the cap.
An aluminum can should be swabbed around the easy-open tab, including the side area below the tab where the bottom lip would have made contact with the can.
Eight ounce cartons – such as those used for milk – should be swabbed around the spout, including the inside and outside part of the spout.
A take-out paper cup – such as those used for coffee or tea – should be swabbed along the full length of the top rim, both inside and outside of the cup. The accompanying lid should be swabbed along the top of the sip-through opening.
An apple should be swabbed along the area that has been bitten. A muffin should be swabbed along the area where a bite or bites have been taken.
Swab the end of a drinking straw that is sticking out from a drinking container.
Swab the bowled part of the spoon. For forks, swab the prongs or tines.

Collecting comparison samples for DNA purposes

DNA analysis is based on a comparative process wherein a DNA profile that is obtained from an exhibit is compared to the DNA profile from a known person, from personal effects or discarded items. For all DNA samples submitted to NFLS for comparison, clearly indicate on the C-414 form whether a sample is from consent, from a warrant, or a discarded item. In all cases, always wear disposable gloves, even when collecting comparison samples.

From known persons, in order of preference
  1. Blood
    • A blood sample can be collected using the RCMP's Blood Sample Warrant/Consent Collection Kit (blue bags), or a blood sample kit offered by another service provider.
    • Use the FTA collection card in the collection kit or a Whatman 31 ET filter paper to collect the blood. The FTA collection card or Whatman 31 ET filter paper are preferred methods to collect blood samples, however, liquid blood is accepted in most cases.
    • The collection of liquid blood must be performed by a healthcare practitioner who collects the blood in a lavender vacutainer tube, which contains preservatives and anti-coagulants.
    • The collection of blood from a deceased person is done at autopsy.
    • See section on "Exhibit Types" for the collection of a blood sample for biological analysis.
  2. Buccal (mouth swab)
  3. Hair
    • A hair sample can be collected using the RCMP's Hair Sample Warrant/Consent Collection Kit (blue bags), or a hair sample kit offered by another service provider.
    • See section on "Exhibit Types" for the collection of hair samples for biological analysis.

If it is not possible to collect any of the above samples (e.g. individual is under surveillance), consider collecting and submitting personal effects or discarded samples for comparison purposes.