Ampac Security Products has developed a new Evidence Bag, which combines special breathable characteristics with tamper-evident features to provide an all-in-one security packaging solution for the collection, transportation and storage of criminal and forensic evidence.

The special breathable characteristics facilitate the drying of wet evidence that may be placed inside the bag, and guard against the loss of crucial specimens due to the deterioration of damp or wet samples.

This product has a tamper-evident closure so that evidence in the bags cannot be interfered with, and so that the integrity and the chain of custody of evidence can be protected.

One side of the bag is made from the breathable material, which facilitates the drying of wet evidence. The other side is made from clear polythene so that contents can be visually examined without opening the bag.

KeepSafe Breathable Evidence Bags offer comparable drying properties and superior tamper-evident security to paper sacks.

KeepSafe Breathable Evidence bags are available in 3 standard designs on a delivery of just a few days. These bags incorporate the standard UK chain of evidence form.
Bespoke printed bags are available in these standard sizes. Print may be up to 6 colours. Lead-time is approximately 10 weeks.

Tests for migration of DNA from samples of bodily fluids through the breathable membrane were performed under controlled conditions, for 24 hours, 1 week and 2 weeks.

In Test Set A, reproducing the worst conditions of use, the breathable bag was enclosed in a larger polyethylene bag to minimise external contamination and a weight placed on top of the sample to ensure maximum contact area between the wet sample and the surface.

In Test set B, representing ‘standard’ drying conditions, the breathable membrane surface was exposed directly to the surrounding air. Weights were placed on the corners of the bag to ensure sample contact; with minimum reduction of the surface area exposed.

Swabs from the section of breathable membrane above the sample were taken at intervals of 24 hours, 7 days and 2 weeks. The results were compared with the DNA profiles of the original samples from the start and end of the tests. External contamination was detected, but there was insignificant transfer to the interior surface.

They also confirm that the breathable surface of the bag must be exposed to surrounding air, to ensure there is no DNA migration across it during the drying period and that there is no significant transfer of external contamination to the inner surface.