The procedures outlined here are grounded in the generally accepted body of knowledge and experience in the field of forensic document examination and related fields. By following these procedures, a forensic document examiner can reliably process charred documents to optimize their preservation.

1.1 This guide provides procedures that should be used by forensic document examiners (Guide E444) for the preservation of charred documents.

1.2 These procedures include evaluation of the sufficiency of the material requiring preservation.

1.3 The particular methods employed in a given case will depend upon the nature of the material available for preservation.

1.4 This guide does not cover all procedures to preserve charred documents. Consultation with a document conservationist, archivist, or related material expert, as well as reference materials, may be necessary.

1.5 This guide does not replace knowledge, skill, ability, experience, education, or training (Guide E2388) and should be used in conjunction with professional judgment.

1.6 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.