What is the role of the lab in evidence transport?

The role of the lab in evidence transport primarily revolves around determining the safest way to ship a given category of evidence. This involvement is critical to ensuring that evidence maintains its integrity during transport. Different types of evidence may require specific handling, packaging, and transportation methods to avoid contamination, degradation, or loss. The lab uses established protocols and guidelines to ensure that any physical evidence collected during a fire investigation is securely and safely transported to avoid compromising the evidence's relevance and utility in legal proceedings.

This careful consideration helps to maintain the chain of custody, which is crucial for the evidence to be admissible in court. It reflects the lab's responsibility in supporting investigators by ensuring that once evidence is collected, it can be delivered to the lab for analysis without damage or alteration.