Going ballistic: SSP Brian Heard with some of the FFEB lab's hi-tech equipment

The Forensic Firearms Examination Bureau was recently accredited by the American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors - Laboratory Accreditation Board (ASCLD-LAB) whose officers gave it near-perfect results in three categories, with two scores of 100 per cent and one of 98.

The body is internationally recognised for ensuring the highest standards in its assessments, bringing FFEB into a select group of recognised, respected and entrusted labs with supreme standards of quality assurance, training, examination, methodology, management and court testimony.

The independent body examines the management, operations, personnel, procedures, equipment, security, health and safety aspects of each lab, to provide assessment on its competitiveness with the world's best.

FFEB Senior Superintendent Brian Heard hailed the accreditation which was gained on the first attempt and recorded the highest score ever in ASCLD-LAB's history. And he was quick to emphasise it was no fluke.

"It took us nearly three years to reach this level, during which we had to review virtually every operation under this office and bring them up to the standards expected. Manuals had to be written on every aspect of our work, right down to the smallest attribute," Mr Heard said.

"The lab before operated to acceptable standards but has since increased immeasurably. As far as our services to the public and the justice system go, our evidence is now above reproach. Our crime investigations and case reports are among the top in international standards.

"For the Force and FFEB, this accreditation really is a feather in our cap. The inspectors, from the United States and Australia, have visited tons of criminal labs around the world and said they were convinced we were the best for facilities, staff, training, quality and equipment.

"We have worked tremendously hard on achieving this standard and it has cost the Force money to bring us up to it. But the comments from the inspectors and the benefits of the lab now more than justify the manpower and monetary costs."

Mr Heard said association representatives were expected to return to present the certificate in the coming months, and he hoped to hold a small Force ceremony and celebration.

The association has accredited labs around the world including countries in North America, Europe and Australasia, providing an impartial, independent and objective system by which labs can review their operations and quality of service to the criminal justice system.

Accreditation is granted for five years during which the lab must prove, through annual review reports, it continues to meet ASCLD-LAB standards, before undergoing another full accreditation exam at the end of the period.



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