Figure 2: Integrity of Investigation
Integrity of
Analysis
Integrity of
Personnel
Integrity of
Report
Integrity of
Data
Figure 1: Integrity of Investigation
in forensic investigation that need the utmost
attention is the integrity of the investigation. The
integrity of an investigation involves four elements:
1. Integrity of Personnel
The investigator, especially one who is known as a
SME, must be equipped with the technical know-
how of the Root Cause Analysis Method (RCAM),
which requires an engineering background and
familiarity with certain engineering software to
guide and assist in the analysis of the exhibits or
specimens taken from the accident site.
Normally, an investigator with the appropriate
expertise will be assigned to an accident. For
instance, if the case involves structural failure the
SME must have at least a structural engineering
qualification. In a fire and explosion case, the SME
must have a chemical engineering background
and so on.
2. Integrity of Data
Data recovered during the investigation must
be securely maintained and its accuracy and
consistency assured over its entire life cycle.
If there are any faults in storage, retrieval or
processing of the data due to unexpected
hardware failure or human error, then the data’s
integrity has failed.
Data integrity consists of traceability, reliability,
validity and accuracy.
3. Integrity of Analysis
This includes frequent and close checking
and monitoring in the calibration process. The
calibration of instrument readings must match
the calibration standard. The standard measuring
instrument is of a highly refined design so that
its readings are close to the true value. If the
instrument fails to generate the true value, it might
jeopardise the investigation as a whole. Then the
sample will have to retested ensure its integrity.
Hence, the test must be executed with great
care and any new information or observation,
about the test — comments, measurements, and
calculation must be noted. The test must include
the date and time, identification number of the
specimen and location of the test.
If the results from a test contain some
uncertain output, such as errors, these will need
to be justified.
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