3.1 These are minimum requirements applicable to the identification of seized drugs.

3.1.1 As these are minimum requirements, it should be recognized that they may not be sufficient for the identification of all drugs in all circumstances. Within these requirements, it is up to the individual laboratory’s management to determine which combination of analytical techniques best satisfies the requirements of its jurisdiction.

3.2 Correct identification of a drug or chemical depends on the use of an analytical scheme based on validated methods (see Practice E2549) and the competence of the analyst. It is expected that in the absence of unforeseen error, an appropriate analytical scheme effectively results in no uncertainty in reported identifications (see Practice E2764).

3.3 This practice requires the use of multiple uncorrelated techniques. It does not discourage the use of any particular method within an analytical scheme. Unique requirements in different jurisdictions may dictate the actual practices followed by a particular laboratory.

1.1 This practice describes minimum criteria for the qualitative analysis (identification) of seized drugs.

1.2 Listed are a number of analytical techniques for the identification of seized drugs. These techniques are grouped on the basis of their discriminating power. Analytical schemes based on these groupings are described.

1.3 Additional information is found in Guides E1968, E1969, E2125, and E2548 and Practices E2326, E2327, E2549, and E2764.

1.4 This practice does not replace knowledge, skill, ability, experience, education or training and should be used in conjunction with professional judgment.

1.5 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 and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.