The Forensic Science Technical Committee, TC 272, at the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) continues to develop standards related to forensic science. Lead by Australia, the TC presently has 24 participating nations and 19 observing nations.

Presently, the TC is developing standards in a five-part series that encompasses the different components of the forensics science process:

21043-1:2018 Forensic sciences Part 1: Terms and definitions

21043-2:2018 Forensic science Part2: Recognition, recording, collecting, transport and storage of items

21043-3 Forensic science Part3: Analysis

21043-4 Forensic science Part4: Interpretation

21043-4 Forensic science Part 5: Reporting

Parts 1 and 2 were published in 2018 and in 2019, ISO 21043-2 was placed on the United States’ OSAC Registry – a trusted repository of high-quality, technically sound standards and guidelines for the practice of forensic science.  TC 272 continues to develop parts 3, 4, and 5 with an anticipated completion date of late 2021.

These additional parts will specify the requirements for forensic analysis, interpretation, and reporting. The requirements are designed to ensure the use of suitable methods, proper controls, qualified personnel, appropriate analysis and interpretation strategies, and accurate, clear, reliable, and impartial reporting. The parts are intended to be used together to serve as a foundation for the forensic science process.