Crime-Scene Safety and Legal Standards

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering crime-scene health and safety protocols, protective gear, disposal procedures, and legal principles from Mincey v. Arizona.

Gloves

Protective equipment that protects investigators from blood and biological materials and prevents accidentally depositing fingerprints or other material onto objects; a new pair should be worn for each item of evidence handled and disposed of in a biohazard bag.

Rubber booties

Protective coverings used indoors over shoes to maintain foot protection at a crime scene.

Face shield

Personal protective equipment used for greater protection when there is a risk of splashing liquids at a crime scene.

Tyvek protective suits

Protective clothing utilized at high-risk biological scenes that may require respiratory masks, eye protection, and skin protection.

Puncture-resistant container

A properly labeled container used to collect sharp evidence such as knives, hypodermic syringes, and razor blades.

Red biohazard plastic bag

A container used for infectious or contaminated materials, including gloves, clothing, masks, pencils, and wrapping paper.

Mincey v. Arizona

A Supreme Court case stemming from a homicide scene where police conducted a four-day search without a warrant or consent, recovering bullets, drugs, and paraphernalia; ruled that extended warrantless searches are disallowed, though police may enter during an emergency to help people who need immediate aid.