A downflow workstation is an ideal platform for forensic applications where fingerprint dusting processes with a fine brush cannot be contained. A downflow cabinet is a high-efficiency ductless fume hood designed to protect the user and the environment by capturing fine particulates typical of fingerprint compounds sourced from the brush during the dusting process.
Forensic industry literature and NIOSH (National Institute of Occupational Health and Safety) guidelines suggest that fingerprint dusting powder, which is comprised of a potentially toxic blend, can pose health and safety risks to evidence processing personnel. This dusting powder usually contains a mix of rosin, carbon black, ferric oxide and other inorganic additives such as heavy metals mercury, cadmium, copper, silicon, titanium and bismuth.
Fingerprint Hood Captures Fine Powder Particles
Fingerprint dusting is best managed in a negative pressure environment. A downflow cabinet with a perforated work surface under negative pressure will capture fine powder particles and transfer them through a pre-filter to a HEPA filter which is 99.99% effective for particulates of 0.3 microns.
- Because room air is recirculated, no external ducting is required and energy efficiency is optimized.
- Access to the work area should be unrestricted from the front and sides to permit a wide range of motion for a variety of evidence.
- The work surface should be well lighted to create a comfortable interface for the user.
- High capacity HEPA and/or carbon filters should be easy to remove and replace.
- The workstation should be mobile for use in multiple locations within the facility.
The Air Science Ductless Workstation is easy to install; no ducting is required. Left and right side clearances permit multiple workstations to be placed side-by-side to create larger work areas as required.
Air Science also offers a full line of fume hoods, pcr workstations, biological safety cabinets, and more.
