Forensic Drying Cabinet Press Release

Dublin Police choose Forensic Drying Cabinets from Air Science Technologies

Air Science Technologies Limited, the specialist designer and manufacturer of fume containment systems, has worked with Uniflo in Ireland to install three new evidence drying cabinets in the Forensic Science Laboratory at Phoenix Park in Dublin, the headquarters of the Irish National Police Service – An Garda Síochána.

Forensic drying cabinets are used to provide secure storage a variety of materials that may be taken from a crime scene and made the subject of scientific investigation. Consequently, an important aspect of the specification was that the cabinets must prevent the ingress of materials from external sources, including airborne chemicals, particulates and other potential contaminants present within the laboratory. Another critical factor was that the units must also have a tamper-evident locking mechanism that would protect against deliberate or unwitting interference with evidence.

Based on these requirements, Air Science Technologies worked with the Cork based contamination control specialists, Uniflo, to design and produce three one-metre wide drying cabinets that were then installed, on schedule, over two working days. As part of the same project, Uniflo also relocated an existing drying cabinet to the new laboratory area, and installed a specially designed dye sink.

The new drying cabinets each incorporate a fume containment and filtration mechanism that creates a steady airflow. This, in turn, provides constant, controllable drying conditions for the evidence within. An advanced pre-filter on the air inlet provides effective protection against cross contamination, while the use of HEPA filters on the extraction system prevents fumes, odours and particulate matter from escaping. This preserves the integrity of the evidence and helps to maintain a safe and pleasant working environment for laboratory staff.

The new units feature a continuous air velocity monitoring system and a low airflow alarm that provides an early warning of possible filter blockages. Each cabinet has internal lighting, tamper-proof seals and a tough polypropylene structure that is easy to clean and resistant to aggressive chemicals.

"The installation and commissioning of the forensic drying cabinets went exactly as planned," said Uniflo director, Declan Fitzgerald. "One of the benefits of collaborating with Air Science was that we were working with bespoke products that were purpose-built for this project. We knew exactly where they would go, how much space was available and how they would be used. It made the job very straightforward and ensured that that between us, we gave the client exactly what it wanted."

Air Science’s forensic drying cabinets have been used by law enforcement agencies throughout Europe and the United States. They can be supplied with optional shelves, hanging rods and a complete plumbing package that includes a spray hose for cleaning after use. They are available as both standard and bench-top models.

All Air Science Technologies products comply with the requirements of British Standard BS7989:2001. Further details about the company’s complete range of products can be obtained by visiting the company’s website – www.airscienceuk.com – or by calling John Haugh on 01704 833338.

Editorial enquiries: Robin Gregson Tel. 01772 866134. Ref.: AST0505

2005