Primary Container
Definition
The packaging that is in direct contact with the evidence item: a bindle, an evidence bag, a rigid box. The primary container must be appropriate for the evidence type, particularly biological versus inorganic.
- Paper containers
- Used for biological evidence to allow moisture to escape.
- Liquid containers
- Vials are used for liquid evidence to maintain proper sealing.
- Trace evidence
- Druggist's fold is the standard fold used for trace evidence like fibers.
Common questions
Why does the type of evidence matter when choosing a primary container?+
Different evidence types have different storage needs. Biological evidence goes in paper to allow moisture to escape, liquids need a sealed vial, trace evidence like fibers use a druggist's fold, fragile items need a rigid box, and firearms need protection from damage and contamination.
What's the difference between a primary container and secondary packaging?+
The primary container is the first wrap that makes direct contact with the evidence itself. It might be a bindle, evidence bag, or rigid box. Secondary packaging is anything that wraps around it afterward for additional protection or identification.
Can you use the same container for biological and inorganic evidence?+
No. The primary container must be appropriate for the evidence type. Biological evidence and inorganic evidence have different packaging requirements, so using the wrong container can compromise the evidence.
Related terms
- Bindle
- A small tamper-evident paper packet folded to contain trace evidence. All four edges are tucked inward so no material can escape and...
- Exhibit Number
- The unique reference code assigned to each recovered item at the moment of collection. It appears on the label, in the scene...
- Forwarding Memo
- The transmittal document that accompanies a sealed packet to the FSL. Most Indian states use a state-numbered Form carrying the IO's signature,...
- PPE (Personal Protective Equipment)
- Gloves, scene suits, overshoes, and masks worn by scene examiners. PPE protects the examiner from hazardous substances at the scene, and protects...
- Recognition
- The judgement call that a particular item or trace is evidence worth collecting. The hardest stage, because everything downstream depends on what...
- Search Pattern
- The systematic geometric route walked by a dog handler to ensure uniform coverage of the search area. Standard patterns include the ladder...
- Secondary Container
- The outer envelope that holds the primary container, the case-identifying label and the tamper-evident seal.
- Tamper-Evident Seal
- A physical barrier (tape, sticker, wax) applied to packaging that shows visible damage if the package has been opened after sealing. Courts...
- Wet-to-Dry Transfer
- The process of air-drying wet biological exhibits (bloody clothing, wet swabs) before final sealing. Sealing wet biological material in any container causes...
Explained in these topics
- Processing Physical Evidence: Discovery, Recognition and ExaminationThe first wrap that touches the evidence. Class-specific: paper for biological, vial for liquid, druggist's fold for trace, rigid box for fragile and firearms.
- Search, Collection, Packaging and PreservationThe packaging that is in direct contact with the evidence item: a bindle, an evidence bag, a rigid box. The primary container must be appropriate for the evide...