Forensic science plays a critical role in criminal justice, but the influence of human factors on its practice is often overlooked. According to a recent report by the US National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), the integration of research-based practices can significantly improve the quality and reliability of forensic work.
Human factors and work environments
NIST points out that there are elements, such as lighting, noise or temperature that can affect the concentration of forensic scientists. For example, working in a quiet environment can improve accuracy in DNA analysis. In addition, recognising and learning from mistakes without fear of retaliation fosters a culture of continuous improvement.
Emotional well-being of professionals
Forensic analysts are often confronted with traumatic cases such as child sexual abuse, which can cause stress and trauma. To prevent burnout and maintain job quality, NIST recommends mandatory breaks and case rotations, and access to counselling.
Application in Catalonia
In Catalonia, the Autonomous University of Barcelona promotes good practices in research, including ethics and quality. The Official College of Psychology of Catalonia offers training in forensic evaluation in which the importance of the well-being of professionals is emphasised.
One of the most promising advances in recent forensic science has come not from large international laboratories, but from Catalonia. The scientific police of the Mossos d’Esquadra Corps has developed a pioneering reagent called POSME (Powder Suspension of Mossos d’Esquadra), which allows fingerprints to be detected on traditionally problematic surfaces, such as human skin. This finding, which has been published in the prestigious Journal of Forensic Identification, represents a revolution in the investigation of crimes, especially in cases of sexual violence, where, until now, conclusive physical evidence was often lacking.
POSME combines iron oxide with ethanol, water and polysorbate 80, and is noted for its ability to detect aged prints and on surfaces with contaminants such as blood or lubricants. Its application is simple, and the result is highly effective: after applying the reagent as if it were paint and wiping it off with water, the prints are clearly revealed. The success of this reagent has aroused the interest of police forces from all over the world, such as those from Austria and Mexico, and positions Catalonia as an international benchmark in forensic innovation.
This milestone demonstrates that applied research, when conducted from the field and with specialised technical knowledge, can have a direct and transformative impact on the fight against crime and the improvement of justice.
Towards a stronger forensic science
Adopting evidence-based practices can strengthen forensic science in Catalonia and ensure more reliable results and better administration of justice. It is essential to foster optimal work environments, recognise the importance of emotional well-being and promote a culture of learning and continuous improvement.
For more information, the full NIST report can be found here: https://www.nist.gov/blogs/taking-measure/research-based-practices-can-help-forensic-scientists-do-their-best-work?utm_source=chatgpt.com
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