ASCLD Applauds the Publication of ISO 21043 - International Standards for Forensic Science Process

GARNER, N.C. - June 24, 2025 - PRLog -- GARNER, NC – The American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors (ASCLD) proudly acknowledges the recent publication of the remainder of ISO 21043, the landmark international series of standards defining requirements and best practices for the forensic science process. As the Administrator of the ANSI-Accredited US Technical Advisory Group (US TAG), the group representing the US forensic science community at the forensic science technical committee (TC 272) in the International Organization of Standardization (ISO), ASCLD recognizes the years of global collaboration among forensic scientists, standards experts, law enforcement professionals, and legal stakeholders from over 25 nations.

ISO 21043 is a comprehensive series of  five standards. The first two standards, a terms and definitions document (Part 1) and a recognition and collection of evidence document (Part 2) were published in 2018. The remaining three documents include an analysis standard (Part 3), interpretation standard (Part 4), and reporting standard (Part 5). "The publication of ISO 21043 Parts 3, 4, and 5 marks a significant milestone for the forensic community," said ASCLD President Scott Hummel. "These international standards will enhance the reliability and validity of forensic practices globally, providing crucial guidance for analysis, interpretation, and reporting. It's a testament to the power of collaboration and dedicated effort from forensic organizations worldwide to advance our shared goals of improving forensic science services."

"ISO 21043 gives us a globally recognized framework that strengthens the integrity of forensics. The United States played an active role in their development, and I am proud of the dedication and collaboration shown by our US TAG members. We look forward to supporting implementation of these standards across laboratories in the United States and beyond," said Erin Forry, Chair of the US Technical Advisory Group to ISO TC 272.

ASCLD encourages forensic service providers to include forensic units and crime labs to adopt the ISO 21043 standards as part of their commitment to scientific rigor and accountability. The implementation of these internationally recognized best practices will strengthen the quality and consistency of forensic services across jurisdictions.

About ASCLD and the US TAG

ASCLD is a nonprofit professional society dedicated to advancing the leadership and management of forensic science laboratories. It serves as the administrator to the ANSI-Accredited

United States Technical Advisory Group (US TAG), the committee that represents the US at the forensic science technical committee (TC 272) at the International Organization of Standardization. The technical committee develops standards related to forensic science including manufacturing DNA consumables and the forensic science process.

For more information about ASCLD and the ANSI-Accredited US TAG TC 272: https://www.ascld.org/.