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E678 − 07 (2013)
sound analytical or statistical principles, and when their con- 5.1.3 Validity of Data—Validity of data may be subject to
fidence limits have been calculated. question unless it has been generated by established
procedures, such as those specified in Practice E860, and
5. Data for Evaluation generally accepted test methods.
5.1 The evaluation process is based on the information 5.1.3.1 Specify the source(s) of other data used in the
collected and is intended to determine the most logical or evaluation. This practice does not preclude the use of data
reasonable explanation of the incident, accounting for all developed for other purposes where such data can be shown to
significant data. Consider three factors: (1) identification of the be relevant to the conditions of the incident. Data published in
source of the data (2) identification of the source validity of the peer-reviewed professional journals is generally regarded as
data; and (3) relevance of the data gathered. having more validity than data published in sources without
peer review.
5.1.1 Examples of data include: (1) observed or recon-
5.1.4 Relevance of Data—When reconstructing a historical
structed objects or events (2) physical characteristics of
event, the investigator is likely to observe more data than is
persons, things and conditions involved (3) dates, times and
pertinent to the reconstruction. Professional judgment is re-
locations; (4) physical injuries to persons and damage to
quired to assess whether a particular piece of data is relevant.
objects; (5) product information and conditions of use
5.1.2 Identification of Source of Data: 6. Opinions
5.1.2.1 Catalog all data made available to or collected by the 6.1 Opinions should be formed or conclusions drawn only
investigator by relationship to the incident and physical char- after the data have been evaluated. Opinions or conclusions
acteristics. Identify quantitative data by type, for example, raw, must account for all known relevant facts related to the incident
reduced and interpreted. Specify the basis for any data reduc- and be consistent with accepted scientific and logical prin-
tion or analysis. ciples.
5.1.2.2 Data may also be identified by source, date, time and
place. Sources may be categorized as: (1) testimonial 7. Report
(statements, affidavits, pleadings, depositions, interrogatories, 7.1 If a report is to be prepared, guidance on report
etc.) (2) documentary (specifications, records, reports, preparation may be found in Practice E620.
publications, literature, manuals, drawings, photographs, etc.),
and (3) physical (components, specimens, samples, etc.). 8. Keywords
Identify distinguishing characteristics as clearly as possible to 8.1 data evaluation; data validation; forensic science; tech-
fulfill evidentiary requirements. nical data
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