2.1 This practice is intended for use by any technical investigator when investigating an incident that can be reasonably expected to be the subject of litigation. The intent is to obtain sufficient information and physical items to identify evidence associated with the incident and to preserve it for analysis.

2.2 The quality of evidence may change with time, therefore, special effort should be taken to capture and preserve evidence in an expeditious manner. This practice sets forth guidelines for the collection and preservation of evidence for further analysis.

2.3 Evidence that has been collected and preserved is identified with, and traceable to, the incident. This practice sets forth guidelines for such procedures.

1.1 This practice covers guidelines for the collection and preservation of information and physical items by any technical investigator pertaining to an incident that can be reasonably expected to be the subject of litigation.

1.2 This practice describes generally accepted professional principles and operations, although the facts and issues of each situation require consideration, and frequently involve matters not expressly dealt with herein. Deviations from this practice should be based on specific articulable circumstances.

1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.