Policy Text
Policy
812Fremont Police Department
Use of Laboratory Equipment
812.1 PURPOSE AND SCOPE
To make laboratory and special photographic equipment available only to trained and qualified
personnel through a system ensuring control and the prevention of equipment damage and
misuse. Special laboratory equipment and special photographic equipment are to be utilized by
trained and qualified personnel only.
812.2 PROCEDURES
All laboratory and special photographic equipment will be used, stored, maintained, and controlled
by the Crime Laboratory and Crime Scene Investigators.
Any other person having a need to personally operate this equipment will acquire approval of
command personnel. In the absence of such approval, use of equipment shall be by qualified
Forensic Specialists or Crime Scene Investigators only. Authorization to use the services of the
Forensic Specialist will come from the On-Duty Watch Commander.
Before any person is permitted to use any laboratory and/or special photographic equipment, that
person must be trained by a qualified Forensic Specialist as to its proper use, care, and operation.
If, in the opinion of the Forensic Specialist, the person displays sufficient knowledge to operate
the equipment, the equipment may be assigned for his/her official use.
(a)The user will sign for the equipment, and upon its return, the equipment will be
inspected by the Forensic Specialist to ensure it is in proper working condition.
(b)Damage to any returned equipment will be immediately reported by the Forensic
Specialist to the Division Commander in charge of the Crime Lab.
(c)Laboratory or special photographic equipment will not be signed out or used by anyone
other than an authorized employee without the permission of the Chief of Police or his
designated representative.
If the use of special laboratory equipment and/or special photographic equipment is required, it is
encouraged that, whenever possible and/or practical, a qualified Forensic Specialist accompany
the equipment and operate it. Approval as outlined above, will be required.
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Published with permission by Fremont Police DepartmentUse of Laboratory Equipment - 1