Investigators and laboratory staff can deposit their own DNA during collection, handling, and analysis of samples. One of the most common sample contamination events is the transfer of DNA from an individual who comes into contact with the evidence. The most probable means of depositing DNA from investigators and laboratory staff onto a sample is from sloughed skin cells and saliva spray. Individuals handling evidence should avoid talking or sneezing over evidence, and gloves should be worn so that sloughing of cells onto the evidence is prevented.

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