AAFS 2025

SS1 | Standards Around the World: How Is the World of Standards Influencing the Future of Forensics? 

Tuesday, February 18, 2025
8:30 am – 5:00 pm
CE Hours: 7.5

Program Description

Multiple forensic and standards organizations around the world are working with the forensic practitioners and partnering with respective stakeholders across the standards community to develop standards that can increase reliability on forensic analysis results and public trust in the forensic disciplines. These responsive programs and activities are designed to engage professionals across the world of standards and conformity assessment and ensure the strength and efficacy standardization. 

There are numerous routes to the development of standards around the world. ISO, the International Organization for Standardization is a non-governmental organization that develops and publishes standards for products, processes, services, and systems. They also help facilitate global trade by providing common standards across different countries. In the US, the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) accredits standards developing organizations that develop discipline specific standards. National Standards Bodies (NSB) are organizations that prepare standards for global use. Each country or economy usually has one recognized NSB. 

The morning will have presentations from non-US labs and how they are implementing and getting involved in standards development. An international Forensic Science Academy and a National Standards Body on their involvement with the development and implementation of Forensic Science Standards. In addition, information will be presented on how international standards have been addressing the emergence of machine learning and artificial intelligence, as well as the challenges when developing these standards. 

The afternoon will focus on ISO and the TC on Forensics, NATO development of standards, a perspective on international standards from a university, and law enforcement development organization. 

Educational Objectives

After attending this presentation, attendees will have a better understanding of how labs and organizations around the world are developing and implementing both US and International Standards. Attendees will also have a better understanding of how they can get involved in standards development around the world. 

Impact Statement

The presentation will impact the forensic science community by creating greater awareness of how standards are currently being drafted, used, and implemented internationally and the impact of standards in forensic sciences.