Forensics: Evaluation of Fire Investigation Activities | New Programmes
About the UKAS Evaluation of Fire Investigation Activities programme
In October 2019, UKAS undertook a dry run exercise of a Fire Investigation Unit in order to assist the Forensic Science Regulator (FSR) to confirm the appropriate quality framework and timeframes for fire investigation activities against ISO/IEC 17020:2012. This exercise also allowed UKAS to determine an assessment approach for this new accreditation.
Associated Standards
ISO/IEC 17020:2012 Conformity assessment – Requirements for the operation of various types of bodies performing inspections
ILAC G19 Modules in a Forensic Science Process
FSR Code of Practice
UKAS RG 201 Accreditation of Bodies Carrying out Scene of Crime Examination
Current status
An evaluation of the outcomes of the dry run exercise has been undertaken and a report produced which identifies areas which the Fire Investigation Unit will need to consider to be compliant with the requirements of ISO/IEC17020 and ILAC G19.
In addition, the report also provides some recommendations for the Fire Community (e.g. NFCC/UK-AFI) and FSR to assist in progressing accreditation in this area. A copy of the report can be found here.
The project is currently on hold until a Fire Investigation Appendix is produced by the FSR at the current time there are no confirmed dates for when this work will be completed.
