Designing a forensic science lab is no easy feat. These environments are complex with needing a fine balance in security, accuracy, functionality and complaisance. In this blog we will discuss essential design components for forensics lab, understand best practices and touch on future proofing your space for evolving investigative demands. Whether upgrading or it’s a new facility, a properly designed lab needs to accommodate intricate workflows, from evidence intake to documentation and secure storage.
What is a Forensics Science and Lab?
Before getting into the design aspect, let’s first address this type of environment. “Forensic science is the use of scientific methods or expertise to investigate crimes or examine evidence that might be presented in a court of law. ” – NIST and a forensic science lab (or crime lab) is a scientific laboratory, using primarily forensic science for the purpose of examining evidence from criminal cases. – Wikipedia. With the basics covered, let’s move to designing.
Understand the Purpose and Scope
Prior to creating any layouts or selecting equipment, define the scope of forensic services your lab will handle.
Common forensics lab types include:
- Biology/DNA Analysis
- Toxicology
- Trace Evidence
- Firearms and Ballistics
- Latent Prints
- Digital Forensics
Each area has unique space, equipment, and environmental requirements. For instance, DNA labs need stringent contamination control, while firearms labs require ballistic containment and acoustic separation.
Plan for Workflow Efficiency
Design the lab around the flow of forensic processes from evidence receiving to reporting. A clear, linear workflow reduces cross-contamination and procedural errors.
Key stages include:
- Evidence Intake: Secure vestibule or sally port for chain-of-custody control.
- Evidence Storage: Short- and long-term storage with temperature/humidity regulation.
- Analysis Zones: Designated and separate spaces for each discipline, with bespoke to equipment and safety requirements.
- Report & Administration Areas: Offices, write-up stations, and secure file storage.
In addition, to help reinforce workflow clarity and security, use color-coded zones, restricted access points, and directional signage.
Securing Quality Furniture and Laboratory Casework
Labs for forensic science require durable, modular and contamination-resistant furniture. Some types to consider are:
- Stainless steel or epoxy resin worktops for chemical resistance and hygiene.
- Height-adjustable tables to accommodate various equipment and ergonomic loads and processes.
- Laboratory-grade and certified casework for compliance.
- Mobile (modular) cabinets and lab tables for flexible reconfiguration as the lab evolves.
- Secure evidence storage lockers integrated into intake and security zones.
Also, having special equipment like fume hoods for lab ventilation, autopsy tables with downdraft ventilation to hold cadavers, and sound-dampening panels to support discipline-specific needs are great to have as well. Always evaluate what you need, as not all forensic labs require everything.
Address Environmental Controls
Maintaining a stable, controlled environment is critical for valid results. Integrate the following:
- HEPA-Filtered HVAC Systems to minimize airborne contaminants.
- Positive/Negative Air Pressure zoning depending on the roomfunction (e.g., DNA labs may require positive pressure).
- Temperature and Humidity Controls in evidence storage and analytical areas.
- Backup Power Systems to prevent data loss or equipment failure.
Prioritizing Security and Chain of Custody
Security is non-negotiable in forensic labs. Without it your laboratory is at great risk. It’s good to have:
- Restricted access controls using badge systems, biometrics or keyed locks.
- Surveillance systems covering all sensitive areas.
- Sally ports and pass-through lockers to transfer evidence with breaching secure zones
- Tamper-proof storage solutions with audit trails.
- Chain-of-custody documentation supported by digital logging stations and secure data servers.
Compliance and Accrediation
Ensuring your forensice lab meets local, state and federal regulations is critical: Suck guidelines and codes to be aware of:
- FBI Quality Assurance Standards (QAS)
- ISO/IEC 17025 Accreditation
- OSHA and NFPA Codes
- ASCLD-LAB or ANAB Standards
Additionally, involving a certified lab planner or consultant early in the process can help you to navigate these requirements easier.
Planning for Flexibility
Forensic science is always evolving. Your lab should be designed to scale and adapt without major disruptions. Keep in mind to stay flexible and adaptable. Planning elements like for digital infrastructure for increasing data and automation needs, extra utility capacity
Need Help Designing a Forensics Lab?
A successful forensics lab supports fast, accurate, and legally defensible results. By emphasizing workflow, safety, flexibility, and compliance from the start, you’ll build a facility that not only meets today’s standards but is also ready for the future of forensic science.
At OnePointe Solutions, as a US based laboratory furniture manufacturer, we can help. If you’re needing a partner to help from start to to come in when everything is finalized, we can support you with designing and furnishing your lab to be in compliance.