Reference Materials and Standards

NIST offers tools that help forensic crime laboratories validate their analytical methods and ensure accuracy in their test results. Some of the most popular Standard Reference Materials (SRMs) are listed below. For ordering information, see our SRM ordering policies.  

The National Institute of Justice Standards and Testing Program develops and publishes equipment standards that specifically address the needs of law enforcement, corrections and other criminal justice agencies.

ASTM International develops standards for forensic science investigations. These apply to procedures for investigations of documents, gunshot residue, polygraph examinations, ignitable liquid residue extraction and others. See the ASTM Forensic Science Standards website. Please note that fees apply to ASTM standards.

The National Fire Protection Association develops codes and standards to prevent and manage the impact of fire disasters, including standards for arson investigators. See the NFPA list of codes and standards.

NIST Standard Reference Materials

Blood Alcohol

Crime Scene Investigation

DNA

Drugs of Abuse

Miscellaneous

NIJ Standard for Color Test Reagents/Kits for Preliminary Identification of Drugs of Abuse (from NIJ)