Safety is an important criterion within the Quality Assurance Standards for Forensic DNA Testing Laboratories (QAS). In the 2011 revision of QAS, Standard 16.1 reads, "…does the laboratory have and follow a documented environmental health and safety program?" The standard is very general in nature and therefore may have varying discussions and interpretations associated with it. As mentioned above, SWGDAM published a guidance document in 2002. Ultimately it is the responsibility of the DNA Technical Leader, Quality Assurance Manager, and Safety Officer (or similarly titled personnel) to ensure compliance with this standard.⁰⁹

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